It is not far off to say that Stephen Hawking is amongst the most brilliant minds alive today. The theoretical physicist, who is plagued by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS, has contributed a lot in the field of science including the theoretical concept of black hole radiation otherwise known as "Hawking radiation."
Time and time again Hawking's brilliant mind has shared his vast knowledge and criticisms about modern life. Just last month, the scientist warned attendees of a recent talk in England about the impending extinction of humanity through threats of a nuclear holocaust, genetically modified viruses and climate change. More recently, Hawking suggested a controversial and peculiar way Earth's energy crisis can be resolved.
In a live lecture with BBC Radio 4, the Cambridge professor proposed an unlikely alternative to fossil fuels. According to Hawking, black holes can easily be a source of energy. He explained that even a tiny black hole about the size of a mountain on earth can produce enough energy that can support all of the planet's needs.
"A mountain-sized black hole would give off X-rays and gamma rays, at a rate of about 10 million megawatts, enough to power the world's electricity supply" explained Hawking.
The scientist however is quick to assure listeners that he is well aware of the complications his proposal will bring about. In order for his plan to be viable not only is there a need to figure out how to find and harness black hole's energy, but their existence needs to be proven first.
Other physicists has since spoken out about Hawking's claims. According to them, there is nothing wrong with his proposal however it is simply not within the realms of humanity's capabilities - at least not right now.
"There is nothing technically wrong with this idea, but it is not very practical, at least within the next 10,000 years" explained Sabine Hossenfelder from the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics.
