How does a black hole affect surrounding space?

The correct answer highlights that a black hole deforms space-time significantly due to its immense gravitational pull. According to Einstein's theory of general relativity, gravity is not just a force but a curvature of space-time itself. When a massive object, like a black hole, is present, it warps the fabric of space-time around it, creating a profound impact on the trajectories of nearby objects and light. This deformation is what gives rise to some of the most interesting phenomena associated with black holes, such as gravitational lensing, where light from distant stars is bent around the black hole, making it appear distorted.

The other choices present ideas that misrepresent the characteristics of black holes. For instance, black holes do not cause space to expand, nor do they emit visible light; they are, in fact, regions from which light cannot escape. Also, the presence of a black hole results in an increase in gravitational pull rather than a decrease, making nearby objects experience stronger gravity rather than lower gravity.