Exploring Filaments in Cosmology: The Role of Dark Matter

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In summary, astronomers have recently detected dark matter filaments near the Milky Way. These filaments, which are primarily made of dark matter, also contain some baryonic matter. The existence of these filaments supports the widely accepted theory of Lambda-Cold Dark Matter and further solidifies the idea of filaments as a mainstream concept in cosmology.
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Alfrez
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Hi,


http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3077693/ns/technology_and_science-space/

http://thefutureofthings.com/news/5497/dark-matter-filament-detected-near-the-milky-way.html


What are these filaments in space? Are they made of pure plasma or is dark matter involved too? How could dark matter help form this filaments? Are filaments a mainstream idea in cosmology??
 
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Those filaments are primarily dark matter, but some 'normal' (baryonic) matter does follow it (especially at the clumps).

Those filaments are very well excepted (they are an observational fact), and are consistent with a particular type of dark matter called 'cold dark matter.' The observation of these filaments, and seeing them also in simulations helped establish what's called the Lambda-Cold Dark Matter (lambda-CDM) paradigm, which is in general well agreed upon.
 

1. What are filaments in cosmology?

Filaments in cosmology are the largest structures in the universe, made up of dark matter and gas. They are long, thin, thread-like structures that connect galaxy clusters and are thought to be the backbone of the cosmic web.

2. How do filaments form?

Filaments are thought to form from the gravitational collapse of overdense regions in the early universe. As gravity pulls matter together, filaments form and grow, connecting galaxy clusters and creating a network of structures in the universe.

3. What is the role of dark matter in filaments?

Dark matter is the dominant component of filaments, making up about 80% of their mass. It provides the gravitational pull necessary for the formation and stability of filaments, as well as the scaffolding for galaxies and galaxy clusters to form along the filaments.

4. How are filaments studied?

Filaments are studied through a variety of methods, including observations from telescopes and simulations using computer models. Astronomers use techniques such as gravitational lensing and spectroscopy to detect the presence of filaments and map their structure and composition.

5. What is the significance of studying filaments in cosmology?

Studying filaments provides valuable insights into the large-scale structure of the universe and the role of dark matter in shaping it. Understanding the formation and evolution of filaments can also help us better understand the growth of galaxies and galaxy clusters, as well as the overall structure and history of the universe.

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