Dark matter is one of the universe’s greatest mysteries. Though we can’t see or touch it, scientists believe it makes up about 27% of the universe. But what exactly is dark matter—and how do we know it’s there?
What Is Dark Matter?
Dark matter does not emit, absorb, or reflect light, making it invisible to all forms of electromagnetic radiation. That’s why we call it “dark.” However, its existence is inferred through gravitational effects on visible matter, like stars and galaxies.
How Do Scientists Detect It?
Even though we can’t see dark matter directly, scientists observe how galaxies rotate and how light bends around invisible masses—phenomena explained only if more mass exists than we can detect. This unseen mass is what we call dark matter.
Common observations include:
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Galaxy rotation curves
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Gravitational lensing (light bending)
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Cosmic microwave background radiation patterns
What Could Dark Matter Be Made Of?
While no one knows for sure, some leading candidates include:
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WIMPs (Weakly Interacting Massive Particles)
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Axions (hypothetical light particles)
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Sterile neutrinos (a new kind of neutrino)
These are particles that rarely interact with ordinary matter, explaining why dark matter is so hard to detect.
Why Is Dark Matter Important?
Without dark matter, galaxies wouldn’t hold together. Gravity from visible matter alone isn’t strong enough. Dark matter acts like a cosmic glue, keeping the structure of the universe intact.
Latest Research & Discoveries
Scientists around the world, including at CERN and underground labs like XENONnT, are conducting sensitive experiments to detect dark matter. While results are still inconclusive, technology is improving every year.
Conclusion
Dark matter might be invisible, but it’s far from irrelevant. It shapes galaxies, affects the expansion of the universe, and holds clues to fundamental physics. As our tools evolve, we get closer to unlocking its secrets.
