Wheeler

Definition

Wheeler was a prominent physicist known for his work on general relativity and quantum mechanics. He contributed to the understanding of black holes and introduced the concept of 'geons,' gravitational-electromagnetic entities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. John Archibald Wheeler coined the term 'black hole' in 1967.
2. Wheeler's work extended Einstein's theory by exploring the implications of general relativity in astrophysical contexts.
3. He proposed the idea that black holes could have no hair, meaning they are characterized solely by mass, charge, and angular momentum.
4. Wheeler developed the notion of 'quantum foam' to describe the fluctuating nature of spacetime at quantum scales.
5. He also introduced the participatory anthropic principle, suggesting that observers are necessary to bring the universe into being.

Review Questions

• What is John Wheeler best known for in relation to general relativity?
• Explain Wheeler's 'no-hair theorem' for black holes.
• Describe what Wheeler meant by 'quantum foam.'

Related terms

Black Hole:

A region of spacetime where gravity is so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape from it.

Geon: A hypothetical gravitational-electromagnetic entity proposed by Wheeler that is held together by its own gravitational field.

Quantum Foam: A concept introduced by Wheeler to describe the fluctuating nature of spacetime at very small scales due to quantum effects.