Observable matter makes up about what percentage of the universe
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Observable Matter in the Universe: A Comprehensive Overview
Percentage of Observable Matter in the Universe
Observable matter, also known as baryonic matter, constitutes a small fraction of the total mass-energy content of the universe. According to various studies, ordinary matter makes up approximately 4.9% of the universe2. This includes all the atoms and ions that form stars, planets, dust, and gas.
Dark Matter and Dark Energy: The Dominant Components
The remaining 95.1% of the universe is composed of dark matter and dark energy. Dark matter accounts for about 26.8% of the universe's total mass-energy content, while dark energy makes up approximately 68.3%2. These components are not directly observable but are inferred from their gravitational effects on visible matter and the expansion of the universe.
Variability in Baryonic Matter Distribution
The distribution of baryonic matter varies significantly across different scales and types of galaxies. In the largest galaxies, the proportion of baryonic matter is higher, although it still does not reach the 17% mark5. In contrast, smaller galaxies contain less than 1% baryonic matter5. This variability highlights the complex and uneven distribution of observable matter in the universe.
The Role of Dark Matter
Dark matter is a non-luminous component that does not emit, absorb, or reflect light, making it invisible and detectable only through its gravitational effects. It is believed to form haloes around galaxies, influencing their rotation curves and the formation of large-scale structures in the universe3. Despite extensive research, the exact nature of dark matter remains one of the biggest mysteries in cosmology4.
Conclusion
In summary, observable matter constitutes about 4.9% of the universe, with the rest being dark matter and dark energy. The distribution of baryonic matter varies across different scales, and the nature of dark matter and dark energy continues to be a significant area of research in astrophysics. Understanding these components is crucial for a comprehensive picture of the universe's composition and evolution.
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What Is the Universe Made Of?
Dark energy makes up 30% of the universe, with matter making up 30% and the rest being a mysterious antigravity force known as dark energy.
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Negative masses may be a real and physical aspect of our universe, potentially unifying dark energy and dark matter into a single fluid, potentially reconciling current cosmological measurements.
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