Dark matter, a hypothetical form of matter believed to make up about 85% of the universe, is an intriguing concept. Its existence is invisible and it does not interact with light. This enigmatic concept has recently grabbed the spotlight as researchers have created a detailed map of the dark matter in the universe.
New Study Aligns with Standard Cosmology Model
A team of scientists has come up with findings that support the standard cosmology model built on Einstein’s theory of gravity. The study was conducted using the Atacama Cosmology Telescope (ACT) which helped map the elusive dark matter.
Mapping Dark Matter Properties
By employing light from the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation or light from the early universe, the scientists could map the dark matter. They meticulously observed the interaction of CMB radiation with the gravitational field of objects like galaxy clusters and entities of dark matter. The light passing through these objects gets bent and distorted due to the gravity exerted by them, assisting with the detection of dark matter.
The Role and Nature of Dark Matter
Dark matter holds immense significance as it offers explanation for the observed structure of the universe. It accounts for the distribution pattern of matter within galaxies and across a cosmic web. Gaining an understanding of dark matter is vital for comprehending the intricate dynamics of the evolution of the universe.
Introducing Dark Energy
Another critical component of the universe is dark energy, which is attributed to be responsible for the accelerating expansion of the universe. This omnipresent energy form fills up the universe and exercises a negative pressure, leading to pushing galaxies and other matter apart from each other. This accounts for an estimated 68% of the total energy content of the universe.
Evidence Pointing Towards Dark Matter
There’s solid indirect evidence supporting the existence of dark matter, prominently reflected in distance scales. For instance, a marked disparity is observed between the estimated and actual star speeds as we move from the center to the periphery of the galaxy, signifying the presence of significant amounts of dark matter.
Other instances of distance scale evidence include Bullet clusters of galaxies. Scientists believe that the merging of two galaxies to form these clusters could only be explained by the presence of dark matter.
An Insight into IceCube Particle Detector
IceCube, a particle detector located at the South Pole was under discussion in recent news. Encompassing a cubic kilometer of ice, it is the world’s largest neutrino detector. Along with being a powerful telescope for searching dark matter, IceCube is buried deep in the ice.
These developments and discoveries in the realm of dark matter, dark energy, and their impact on cosmic evolution reflect the dynamic nature of modern scientific research and underscore the importance of continuous exploration. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of the universe, tools like the IceCube detector and studies mapping dark matter will keep offering new insights into our cosmic neighborhood.
