An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics
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A hypothetical state of → infinite energy density representing an infinite → gravitational field and infinite → space-time curvature. The singularity arises from using Einstein's theory of → general relativity concerning gravity. We know, however, that when the density and heat become extremely large, quantum physics of gravity becomes important. Yet Einstein's equations ignore quantum effects. In other words, in certain extreme conditions, Einstein's equations do not apply.

→ Big Bang; → singularity.

An instant of infinite density, infinite pressure, and infinite temperature where the equations of general relativity break down, if the standard Big Bang theory is extrapolated all the way back to time zero. → singularity.

→ initial; → singularity.

A singularity that is not surrounded by an event horizon. It will therefore be visible and communicable to the outside world.

→ naked; → singularity.

A region of infinite → space-time curvature postulated to lie within a → black hole.

→ Schwarzschild black hole; → singularity.

1) Math.: A point at which a given mathematical object is not defined.
2) Physics: A point in → space-time in which gravitational force causes space-time to have infinite curvature; matter is crushed to infinite density and zero volume. This happens at the center of a → black hole where space and time cease to exist as we know them, and the known laws of physics break down. See also → Schwarzschild singularity; → initial singularity.

→ singular + → -ity.