Difference between dark energy and dark matter

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the distinction between dark energy and dark matter, focusing on their definitions, roles in cosmology, and implications for astronomical observations. Participants explore the relationship of these concepts to galaxy rotation curves and the expansion of the universe.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the mass distribution in spiral galaxies, which affects rotational velocities, might be related to dark energy.
  • Another participant counters that this phenomenon is related to dark matter, asserting that dark matter and dark energy are fundamentally different concepts.
  • A request for clarification on the differences between dark energy and dark matter is made multiple times, indicating a need for conceptual clarification.
  • Some participants emphasize that dark matter explains the behavior of stars in galaxies, while dark energy is associated with the acceleration of the universe's expansion.
  • There is a suggestion that participants should research cosmological definitions independently to enhance their understanding before seeking further clarification.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that dark matter and dark energy are distinct concepts, but there remains some confusion about their definitions and implications, leading to multiple competing views on their relationship to observed phenomena.

Contextual Notes

Some claims about the nature and roles of dark matter and dark energy are not fully explored, and there are assumptions about the participants' prior knowledge that may affect the clarity of the discussion.

Apashanka
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From the rotation curve of spiral galaxy it is found that the entire mass is not concentrated at the centre but for large distance from the central core it varies linearly with r for which the velocities(rotational) of the objects far from the central core remains nearly constt. and near to the central core (within) it increases linearly.
Is it not related to dark energy since this mass(>>r) is which we can't accept and leads to dark energy??
 
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Apashanka said:
Is it not related to dark energy

No, it's related to dark matter. Dark matter is not the same thing as dark energy.

Apashanka said:
this mass(>>r) is which we can't accept

Huh? Cosmologists have no trouble accepting that dark matter exists.
 
PeterDonis said:
No, it's related to dark matter. Dark matter is not the same thing as dark energy.
Can you please explain how are they different
 
Apashanka said:
Can you please explain how are they different

Things are different when they are not the same.
 
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Apashanka said:
Can you please explain how are they different

Have you tried finding what cosmologists have to say about each of them?
 
Dark matter is stuff which accounts for the behavior of stars away from the centers of galaxies, among other things.
Dark energy is a completely different thing(?) which serves as an explanation of why the expansion of the universe is accelerating.
 
Apashanka said:
Can you please explain how are they different
So, please be aware that you're getting the response you're getting because this question is asked so often, and it would be easy for you to find the answer yourself by just looking up the terms.

You're much more likely to get good responses if you look up the info then come back here and ask questions about the things you had a hard time understanding.
 

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