The Quantum Stress-Tensor in Self-Similar Spherical Dust Collapse

TL;DR

This paper computes the quantum stress tensor in a self-similar dust collapse model, revealing divergent radiation flux near the Cauchy horizon, which could prevent naked singularity formation or produce observable differences from black holes.

Contribution

It provides the first calculation of the quantum stress tensor in a self-similar dust collapse with a naked singularity, exploring quantum effects on cosmic censorship.

Findings

Outgoing radiation flux diverges on the Cauchy horizon

Quantum back reaction may prevent naked singularity formation

Divergent flux could produce observable signatures

Abstract

We calculate the quantum stress tensor for a massless scalar field in the 2-d self-similar spherical dust collapse model which admits a naked singularity. We find that the outgoing radiation flux diverges on the Cauchy horizon. This may have two consequences. The resultant back reaction may prevent the naked singularity from forming, thus preserving cosmic censorship through quantum effects. The divergent flux may lead to an observable signature differentiating naked singularities from black holes in astrophysical observations.