Discover
/
Article

Quantum Black Holes Are Tied to D‐Branes and Strings

MAR 01, 1997
Theorists have used string theory and nonperturbative objects known as D‐branes to count the quantum microstates of black holes. This major step forward in our understanding of quantum gravity may resolve the longstanding “paradox” of information loss in black hole evaporation.
Graham P. Collins

General relativity and quantum mechanics, two of the monumental achievements of 20th‐century physics, verified by experiment to unprecedented levels of accuracy, have long resisted physicists’ attempts to combine them in a single comprehensive theory. In recent years much research in this area has focused on one central conundrum: how to describe the quantum physics of black holes.

This article is only available in PDF format

Related content
/
Article
The finding that the Saturnian moon may host layers of icy slush instead of a global ocean could change how planetary scientists think about other icy moons as well.
/
Article
/
Article
After a foray into international health and social welfare, she returned to the physical sciences. She is currently at the Moore Foundation.
/
Article
Modeling the shapes of tree branches, neurons, and blood vessels is a thorny problem, but researchers have just discovered that much of the math has already been done.
This Content Appeared In
pt-cover_1997_03.jpeg

Volume 50, Number 3

Get PT in your inbox

pt_newsletter_card_blue.png
PT The Week in Physics

A collection of PT's content from the previous week delivered every Monday.

pt_newsletter_card_darkblue.png
PT New Issue Alert

Be notified about the new issue with links to highlights and the full TOC.

pt_newsletter_card_pink.png
PT Webinars & White Papers

The latest webinars, white papers and other informational resources.

By signing up you agree to allow AIP to send you email newsletters. You further agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.