The (2+1)-Dimensional Black Hole

TL;DR

This paper reviews the classical and quantum features of the (2+1)-dimensional black hole, highlighting its similarities to Kerr black holes and its simplicity for exact quantum computations.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of the classical and quantum properties of the (2+1)-dimensional black hole, emphasizing its tractability for exact calculations.

Findings

Shares characteristics with Kerr black holes, such as horizons and ergosphere

Exhibits mass inflation and Hawking radiation

Allows exact quantum computations in three dimensions

Abstract

I review the classical and quantum properties of the (2+1)-dimensional black hole of Ba{\~n}ados, Teitelboim, and Zanelli. This solution of the Einstein field equations in three spacetime dimensions shares many of the characteristics of the Kerr black hole: it has an event horizon, an inner horizon, and an ergosphere; it occurs as an endpoint of gravitational collapse; it exhibits mass inflation; and it has a nonvanishing Hawking temperature and interesting thermodynamic properties. At the same time, its structure is simple enough to allow a number of exact computations, particularly in the quantum realm, that are impractical in 3+1 dimensions.