X-ray echoes allows scientists to map out black holes: study

Researchers used X-ray echoes to map the surroundings of a black hole, revealing its spin and mass. They discovered that the black hole's corona changes size, affecting light echoes. This study was conducted using the European Space Agency's XMM X-ray Observatory.

What is the primary method used to map the surroundings of a black hole?

• Infrared imaging

• X-ray echoes

• Radio waves

• Ultraviolet light

What causes the massive spatial distortions around a black hole?

• Gravitational force

• Cosmic winds

• Magnetic fields

• Solar flares

Which observatory was used to observe X-ray echoes from a distant galaxy's black hole?

• European Space Agency's XMM X-ray Observatory

• James Webb Space Telescope

• Chandra X-ray Observatory

• Hubble Space Telescope

What information can be determined from the X-ray echoes observed by the team?

• The age of the black hole

• The temperature of the black hole

• The distance of the black hole from Earth

• The spin and mass of the black hole

What unexpected behavior was discovered about the black hole's corona?

• It remains constant in size

• It changes size rapidly

• It emits gamma rays

• It absorbs all light