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quantum123
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Does Andromeda contain dark matter? Is the newly discovered halo able to account for the rotation of the galaxy?
quantum123 said:Does Andromeda contain dark matter? Is the newly discovered halo able to account for the rotation of the galaxy?
Dark matter is a type of matter that does not emit or absorb light, making it invisible to traditional telescopes. It is important in Andromeda because it is thought to make up the majority of the galaxy's mass, playing a crucial role in its formation and evolution.
Scientists can observe the gravitational effects of dark matter on visible matter, such as stars and gas, in Andromeda. This allows them to calculate the amount and distribution of dark matter in the galaxy.
In addition to gravitational effects, other evidence for dark matter in Andromeda includes the rotation curves of stars and gas, which do not match the expected behavior based on visible matter alone. Additionally, computer simulations of galaxy formation and evolution also support the presence of dark matter in Andromeda.
No, dark matter cannot be directly observed in Andromeda or any other galaxy. It does not interact with light, making it impossible to see with traditional telescopes. However, scientists are working on experiments and technologies that may one day allow for the direct detection of dark matter.
The existence of dark matter in Andromeda, and other galaxies, challenges our current understanding of the universe and its formation. It also has implications for the study of gravity and the behavior of matter on a large scale. By studying dark matter in Andromeda, scientists hope to gain a better understanding of the universe as a whole.