9

Set 5: Inferences (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

Black holes were long considered one-way traps from which nothing could escape—not even light. However, Stephen Hawking proposed that black holes slowly emit radiation due to quantum effects near their event horizons, meaning they gradually evaporate over immense timescales. This 'Hawking radiation' remains theoretically predicted but experimentally unconfirmed.

What can be inferred about Hawking radiation?

A. It has been directly observed in laboratory experiments.
B. It represents a theoretical prediction that challenges earlier assumptions about black holes.✓ Correct
C. Black holes emit radiation instantaneously.
D. Nothing can ever escape a black hole.

Detailed Explanation

Challenges 'one-way trap' assumption; predicted but 'experimentally unconfirmed' = theoretical challenge to old view.

Key Evidence:

• "nothing could escape"

• "black holes slowly emit radiation"

• "theoretically predicted but unconfirmed"

Why others are wrong: A ('Experimentally unconfirmed.'), C ('Gradually' and 'immense timescales.'), D (Hawking radiation (if real) escapes.).

← PreviousNext →