An Introduction to Modern Astrophysics · Problem 24.31

The Early Universe — Carroll & Ostlie

Physics — Astrophysics · galactic-center-accretion-mass

Problem

If the accretion rate at the Galactic center is 10−310^{-3} M⊙_\odot yr−1^{-1} and if it has remained constant over the past 5 billion years, how much mass has fallen into the center over that period of time? Compare your answer with the estimated mass of a possible supermassive black hole residing in the center of our Galaxy.

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