Trivia ForgePlay free →

What is the name of the disk of debris that surrounds a black hole?

Show answer

Accretion disk

As matter falls toward a black hole, it orbits and accelerates, heating up to millions of degrees due to friction and gravitational forces. This makes the disk emit intense X-rays and visible light.

Also asked as:
  • What term describes the rotating ring of matter that orbits a black hole?

Would you remember this in 6 months?

Trivia Forge uses spaced repetition so facts stick. Free, no signup needed.

Practice Space & Astronomy questions →

More Space & Astronomy trivia

See all 212 →