5

Set 4: Central Ideas (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: D

PASSAGE

The following text describes the 'Event Horizon' of a black hole. The event horizon is the boundary defining the region of space around a black hole from which nothing—not even light—can escape. It is the point of no return. According to general relativity, gravity curves spacetime so severely here that all paths move effectively inward towards the singularity. To a distant observer, an object falling in would appear to slow down and fade away due to gravitational time dilation, never actually crossing the boundary.

How does an object crossing the event horizon appear to a distant observer?

A. It disappears instantly in a flash of light
B. It appears to speed up and crash into the center
C. It appears to slow down and fade away, never crossing
D. It bounces off the surface✓ Correct

Detailed Explanation

Choice C is correct. The text states: 'To a distant observer, an object... would appear to slow down and fade away... never actually crossing.'

Key Evidence:

• "appear to slow down and fade away"

• "never actually crossing"

Why others are wrong: A (Inaccurate), B (Inaccurate), D (Inaccurate).