ringdown
/ˈrɪŋdaʊn/
Definition
The final stage of a black hole merger where the newly formed, distorted black hole settles into a stable state by emitting characteristic gravitational-wave vibrations.
Etymology
The term is a compound of 'ring' (referring to the resonant vibrations or oscillations) and 'down' (indicating the cooling or settling process). It likely evolved from telecommunications terminology where 'ring-down' described the signaling process that concluded a telephone connection.
In the news
In this article, 'ringdown' refers to the specific period after a collision where scientists analyze the black hole's vibrations to test Einstein’s theory of General Relativity. It serves as a diagnostic tool, allowing researchers to measure the object's mass and spin.
Listening to ‘ringing’ black holes unlocks future gravitational-wave astronomy
Read the full article ↗EurekAlert!