What makes up most of the universe
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Composition of the Universe: Dark Matter and Dark Energy
Overview of Universe Composition
The universe is composed of several key components: ordinary matter, dark matter, and dark energy. Ordinary matter, which includes everything we can see and touch, makes up a surprisingly small fraction of the universe. The majority of the universe is made up of dark matter and dark energy, both of which remain largely mysterious to scientists.
Ordinary Matter: A Small Fraction
Ordinary matter, also known as baryonic matter, constitutes only about 5% of the universe4 5 6. This includes all the atoms that make up stars, planets, and everything else we can observe directly. Despite its small percentage, ordinary matter is crucial for the formation of structures like galaxies and stars.
Dark Matter: The Invisible Mass
Dark matter accounts for approximately 25% of the universe4 5 6. Unlike ordinary matter, dark matter does not emit, absorb, or reflect light, making it invisible and detectable only through its gravitational effects. It is believed to be responsible for the formation and structure of galaxies. Observations of galaxy rotations and gravitational lensing provide strong evidence for the existence of dark matter3 8 10.
Dark Energy: The Dominant Component
The most abundant component of the universe is dark energy, making up about 70%1 4 5 6. Dark energy is thought to be responsible for the accelerated expansion of the universe. This mysterious force counteracts gravity and is a major focus of current cosmological research. The nature of dark energy remains one of the biggest questions in physics, with theories ranging from a cosmological constant to dynamic fields4.
The Role of Dark Matter and Dark Energy in Cosmology
Dark matter and dark energy are essential for understanding the universe's structure and evolution. Dark matter provides the necessary gravitational pull to form galaxies and clusters, while dark energy drives the accelerated expansion of the universe2 4 7. Together, they shape the large-scale structure of the cosmos and influence its ultimate fate.
Conclusion
In summary, the universe is predominantly made up of dark matter and dark energy, with ordinary matter playing a minor role. Dark matter constitutes about 25% of the universe, while dark energy makes up around 70%. These components are crucial for the formation and expansion of the universe, yet their true nature remains one of the most profound mysteries in modern physics. Understanding these enigmatic components is key to unlocking the secrets of the cosmos.
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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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