The mystery of dark matter and dark energy: Why do they account for 95% of the universe?

The universe is like an unfinished painting. The dark matter and dark energy in it are the elusive colors and lines that dominate the structure and future of the entire universe.

Since ancient times, human beings have never stopped exploring the universe. With the advancement of science and technology, our understanding of the universe continues to deepen. However, under this vast starry sky, there is still a mysterious field that has not yet been revealed, which is dark matter and dark energy. According to existing research, the two together account for about 95% of the mass and energy of the universe. This staggering number raises countless questions and thoughts: What exactly are they? How should we understand their existence?

Dark matter: the invisible component of the universe

Dark matter refers to matter that does not emit light or interact with electromagnetic radiation, so we cannot observe it directly. But the random flow of galaxies and the structure of the universe show that dark matter plays a crucial role in the formation and evolution of the universe. Based on the speed and gravity of the galaxy, scientists calculated that in order to maintain the stability of the galaxy, a large amount of "invisible" matter must be needed.

Observational data from various places are like pieces of a puzzle. When combined, they can depict the outline of dark matter, testing our imagination and scientific theories.

Since the 1970s, astronomers have been collecting data to deduce the properties of dark matter. Whether it is through the gravitational lensing effect or the movement of galaxy clusters, there is indirect evidence for the existence of dark matter. Research by American astronomer Vivian Kerr shows that the gravitational effects of galaxy groups indicate that the actual amount of matter far exceeds the visible stars and galaxies.

Dark energy: the driving force behind the accelerated expansion of the universe

As for dark energy, it's another mystery. Since the discovery in 1998 that the expansion of the universe is accelerating, the scientific community has begun to speculate that most of the energy in the universe does not come from visually visible matter. The existence of dark energy is believed to be the main cause of this phenomenon. According to research, dark energy may be a ubiquitous energy field that plays a dominant role in the overall dynamics of the universe.

Only through continuous exploration and observation can we unravel the mystery of dark energy. Can it reveal the true laws of the universe?

Although we cannot directly detect dark energy, several observations, such as changes in the brightness of supernova explosions and fluctuations in the cosmic microwave background radiation, have shown its influence. Astronomers speculate that dark energy occupies about 68.5% of the universe. This data can't help but give us new thinking about the establishment and evolution of the universe.

Challenges and reflections on science

Understanding dark matter and dark energy is not only crucial to astrophysics, but also involves deeper philosophical thinking. Does the existence of these mysterious ingredients challenge our original understanding of the universe? We try to figure out how the universe works, but we are constantly inspired by these invisible forces. Will we one day be able to find clear answers to them through advances in technology or precise observations?

As scientists continue to explore these potential answers, each of us should also consider our place and significance in the universe.

The research on dark matter and dark energy will never end. With the advancement of telescope technology and the improvement of theory, new discoveries will continue to emerge. This is not only a revolution in physics, but also a journey for mankind to explore the relationship between self and the universe. How will they change our worldview and cosmology in the future?

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