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Black holes play a surprising role in the creation of life
- Supermassive black holes in large galaxies enter active galactic nucleus (AGN) phase, emitting high-energy light like UV radiation that can affect nearby planets.
- A recent study in The Astrophysical Journal explores how AGN radiation could potentially help life thrive under certain conditions.
- AGN radiation may not be entirely destructive as previously thought, with findings suggesting it could benefit planets with oxygenated atmospheres.
- Black holes, like Sagittarius A* in the Milky Way, have likely gone through AGN phases, evidenced by phenomena like Fermi bubbles.
- The study utilized computer simulations to show how AGN light interacting with a planet's atmosphere, particularly in the presence of oxygen, could aid in producing ozone.
- Oxygen presence can lead to a protective ozone layer forming in the atmosphere, shielding the planet from harmful radiation and supporting life.
- Without oxygen, planets are at risk from AGN radiation, potentially hindering the emergence of life.
- Research suggests planets in compact galaxies with closer stars to the central black hole are more exposed to lethal radiation compared to galaxies like the Milky Way.
- Feedback loops in planetary habitability play a crucial role, where AGN radiation may either help sustain existing life or prevent its emergence.
- This study reshapes the view of black holes, suggesting they can act as both threats and aids to life depending on a planet's atmospheric conditions and stage of development.
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