IAS Program on Particle Theory - Testing Gravity Theories Using Higher Overtones in Black Hole Quasinormal Modes

Abstract

In this talk, the speaker will introduce the parametrized black hole quasinormal (QNM) ringdown formalism, a robust framework for analyzing the QNMs in systems resembling General Relativity, with a focus on higher overtones. These overtones have been shown to provide critical insights during the early ringdown phases and to exhibit heightened sensitivity to the physics near black hole horizons. The speaker's findings indicate that larger deviations from general relativity typically appear in the quasinormal frequencies of the higher overtones. An analytical method used to understand this trend will also be discussed, including how it aligns with and expands upon previous studies. The talk will discuss the parametrized QNM formalism for higher overtones and explore its potential in testing gravity theories.


About the Speaker

Ms ZHANG Jiale is a theoretical physicist specializing in gravitational physics, focusing particularly on black holes, gravitational radiation, relativistic astrophysics, and strong-field tests of general relativity. Her research primarily involves testing gravity theories using quasinormal modes (QNMs) during the ringdown phase of binary black hole merger systems. After graduating from Ochanomizu University with a bachelor’s degree in physics in 2023, Ms Zhang is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Physics at the same institution. She also serves as a student research assistant at the Center for Theoretical Physics of the Universe, Cosmology, Gravity, and Astroparticle Physics Group at the Institute for Basic Science (IBS) in Daejeon, Korea.


About the Program

For more information, please refer to the program website at http://iasprogram.ust.hk/particle_theory.


For Attendees' Attention

• Seating is on a first come, first served basis.