How does Hawking radiation work?

Can you explain what Hawking radiation is?

Hawking radiation is a theoretical prediction by Stephen Hawking that black holes can emit radiation due to quantum effects near the event horizon.

How does this radiation occur if nothing can escape a black hole?

Great question! It occurs because of virtual particle pairs that pop into existence near the event horizon. One particle can fall into the black hole while the other escapes, leading to radiation.

What are the implications of Hawking radiation for black holes?

If Hawking radiation exists, it suggests that black holes can lose mass and eventually evaporate over time, challenging our understanding of their permanence.

Is there any experimental evidence for Hawking radiation?

As of now, there is no direct experimental evidence for Hawking radiation, but researchers are exploring ways to detect it indirectly.