PBS Space Time Season 2018 Episode 16 The Star at the End of Time

In season 2018 episode 16 of PBS Space Time, titled "The Star at the End of Time," viewers are taken on a journey to explore the fascinating phenomenon of black holes and the ultimate fate of the universe.

The episode begins by introducing the concept of entropy and how it is related to the eventual heat death of the universe. As the universe continues to expand, the available energy for work decreases, leading to a state where all matter is evenly distributed and there is no more energy left to do anything. This state is known as maximum entropy, or heat death.

However, before the universe reaches this point, there is the possibility of something even more dramatic happening. The episode then shifts its focus to black holes and how they play a crucial role in the fate of the universe.

Black holes are one of the most mysterious and enigmatic objects in the universe. They are formed when a massive star collapses under its own gravity, creating a region in space where the gravitational pull is so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape. This region is known as the event horizon.

As black holes continue to consume matter, they grow in size and their gravitational pull becomes even stronger. Eventually, they become so massive that they can disrupt entire galaxies and even cause stars to be flung out of their orbits.

But what happens when a black hole reaches the end of its life? This is where the episode delves into some of the most cutting-edge theories in theoretical physics and cosmology.

One possible fate for black holes is known as Hawking radiation. This is a phenomenon where a black hole, due to quantum mechanical effects, emits particles and loses mass over time until it eventually evaporates completely. This is the subject of ongoing research, and the episode explores some of the latest theories and experiments that are being conducted to test this hypothesis.

Another theory involves the idea of a final singularity. This is a point in space where the fabric of spacetime itself breaks down and no physical laws can hold. This is a hypothetical scenario, but one that could have profound implications for the fate of the universe.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning visual effects and animations that help to illustrate the complex concepts being covered. There are also interviews with leading experts in the field, who provide insights into their research and theories.

Overall, "The Star at the End of Time" is a thought-provoking and fascinating exploration of one of the biggest questions in science: What is the ultimate fate of the universe? It is a must-watch for anyone interested in cosmology, astronomy, or physics, and offers a glimpse into some of the most cutting-edge research being conducted today.