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Existence of space-like DHSs with negative null energy flux

Ascertain whether space-like dynamical horizon segments with negative null energy flux (π”ˆ<0) appear in physically interesting scenarios, by constructing explicit examples or proving constraints that exclude them.

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Background

The review classifies dynamical horizon segments (DHSs) by signature and the sign of the null energy flux π”ˆ, showing that space-like DHSs with positive π”ˆ occur broadly under the null/dominant energy condition and in gravitational collapse. Cases with negative π”ˆ require violations of energy conditions and stringent stress-energy properties.

While time-like DHSs with negative π”ˆ arise in settings such as semi-classical evaporation (negative energy inflow), the existence and physical relevance of space-like DHSs with π”ˆ<0 is unclear and explicitly posed as an open question.

References

Open Issue 3 (OI-3) Do space-like DHs with \mathcal{E} <0 appear in any physically interesting situations?

Quasi-Local Black Hole Horizons: Recent Advances (2502.11825 - Ashtekar et al., 17 Feb 2025) in Section 3.1