String Theory and the Principle of Black Hole Complementarity

TL;DR

This paper explores how string theory exemplifies the apparent contradictions addressed by the Principle of Black Hole Complementarity, highlighting differing observations of a string crossing a black hole horizon.

Contribution

It demonstrates how string theory provides a concrete example of the paradoxes involved in black hole complementarity, especially regarding information spread and observer perspectives.

Findings

String appears as a Planck-sized object to infalling observers.

Outside observers see the string's information spreading over the horizon.

Information retention time involves the string filling the entire horizon area.

Abstract

String theory provides an example of the kind of apparent inconsistency that the {\it Principle of Black Hole Complementarity\/} deals with. To a freely infalling observer a string falling through a black hole horizon appears to be a Planck size object. To an outside observer the string and all the information it carries begin to spread as the string approaches the horizon. In a time of order the ``information retention time'' it fills the entire area of the horizon.