According to the theory that active galactic nuclei are powered by supermassive black holes, the energy released as light comes from .
A)gravitational potential energy released by matter that is falling toward the black hole
B)jets emerging from the accretion disk
C)nuclear fusion in the accretion disk surrounding the black hole
D)matter- antimatter annihilation occurring just outside the event horizon of the black hole

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Active galactic nuclei are believed to be powered by supermassive black holes at their centers. As matter falls towards these black holes, it releases a large amount of gravitational potential energy, which is converted into light and other forms of energy that radiate from the active galactic nucleus. Therefore, choice A is the best answer. Jets and nuclear fusion in the accretion disk might contribute to the energy output, but the primary source is the gravitational potential energy of the accreting matter. Matter-antimatter annihilation is not a significant source of energy in active galactic nuclei.

According to the Theory That Active Galactic Nuclei Are Powered