Terminating black holes in asymptotically free quantum gravity

TL;DR

This paper explores gravitational collapse in an asymptotically free quantum gravity theory, showing that classical black hole singularities are replaced by bounces, leading to temporary trapped surfaces or potential universe creation.

Contribution

It introduces a quantum gravity model where classical singularities are avoided, replacing them with bounces and altering black hole formation scenarios.

Findings

Classical singularities are replaced by bounces in the quantum gravity model.

Collapse results in temporary trapped surfaces, not permanent black holes.

Possible evolution into a new universe after bounce.

Abstract

We study the homogeneous gravitational collapse of a spherical cloud of matter in a super-renormalizable and asymptotically free theory of gravity. We find a picture that differs substantially from the classical scenario. The central singularity appearing in classical general relativity is replaced by a bounce, after which the cloud re-expands indefinitely. We argue that a black hole, strictly speaking, never forms. The collapse only generates a temporary trapped surface, which can be interpreted as a black hole when the observational timescale is much shorter than the one of the collapse. However, it may also be possible that the gravitational collapse produces a black hole and that after the bounce the original cloud of matter evolves into a new universe.