Work

Quantum electron clouds near black holes: Black atoms and molecules

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: We study quantum mechanical wavefunctions near highly curved spaces, i.e., black holes. By utilizing the formalism developed by DeWitt, we derive the Schrödinger equations in the vicinity of the Schwarzschild and the Reissner-Nordström black hole geometries. The quantum electron cloud for the "black hydrogen atom" - an electron trapped by black holes - is particularly studied. We solve the equations and find that black holes generally attract the wavefunctions, localizing them near the horizon where the electrons are most likely to be trapped. These results imply that not only classical objects but also the quantum material and even the chemical properties of the atoms are affected by strong gravity. We also discuss black hydrogen molecules composed of multi-centered Majumdar-Papapetrou black holes.

Source: Physical review. D/Physical review. D.

DOI: 10.1103/515v-hm55

Authors: Hinako Iseki, Shin Sasaki, Kenta Shiozawa

Institution: Kitasato University

Language: English

Topic: Black Holes and Theoretical Physics

Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: Kitasato University, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science

Award: Spacetime structure and resolution of blackhole singularity in alpha-prime complete theory