Black holes may have grown differently when the universe was 'younger'

Black holes can grow in two ways, they will merge with other black holes or they devour surrounding materials.

At the center of almost every galaxy there is a supermassive black hole. Some are energetic, others are quiet, but they all play an important role in the evolution of galaxies.

To study the development of a black hole more closely, the researchers created a theoretical model that showed that the growth of a black hole depends on its mass and the age of the universe considered.

Understanding how these black holes evolved is important in understanding how other structures in the universe have changed since the Big Bang.

In the early universe, small black holes developed mainly from merging with other black holes, while larger black holes gained mass by accretion.

"We believe that every galaxy contains a giant black hole at its center, regulating the formation of stars. Understanding how black holes form, grow and be associated with galaxies is The foundation for our understanding and knowledge of the universe, ' said Dr. Fabio Pacucci of Harvard University, the principal researcher.

The theoretical test is considered quite simple by scientists. Black holes developed from accretion of matter are expected to rotate on their axis faster than holes developed through merging. However, current technological limitations still make testing difficult.

'Our model will be an important step in future observational efforts to detect ancient black hole populations. Black holes in the early universe will be instrumental in providing a clearer picture of how black holes develop and co-develop with galaxies, ' Fabio Pacucci said.

In addition, the researchers emphasized that future X-ray observatories and gravitational waves, such as Athena and LISA, will be able to create a larger catalog of black hole rotations through the ages of the universe.