What Is Dark Flow? A Look at the Phenomenon Observed in Galaxy Clusters

Thread starter Gravitons
Start date Jul 20, 2011
Tags

Flow

In summary, dark flow is a phenomenon observed in galaxy clusters where they appear to be moving in a specific direction at high speeds, possibly influenced by large-scale structures in the universe. It is different from dark matter and dark energy, and is observed through the measurement of the cosmic microwave background. Its implications include challenging our understanding of the distribution of matter in the universe and providing insights into the nature of dark matter and dark energy. Further research on dark flow may also help us better understand the overall structure and evolution of the universe.

Jul 20, 2011

Gravitons

I recently saw a show on the science channel about this phenomenon that was discovered by observing the movement of galaxy clusters. But I don't have a full understanding of what this is exactly?

Space news on Phys.org

Jul 20, 2011

Drakkith

Mentor

Check out wikipedia's article on Dark Flow.

1. What is dark flow?

Dark flow is a phenomenon observed in galaxy clusters where the clusters appear to be moving in a specific direction at high speeds, indicating the presence of a large-scale flow of matter in the universe.

2. How is dark flow different from dark matter and dark energy?

Dark flow is a separate phenomenon from dark matter and dark energy. Dark matter is a type of invisible matter that makes up a large portion of the universe's mass, while dark energy is a mysterious force that is thought to be responsible for the accelerating expansion of the universe. Dark flow, on the other hand, refers to the specific movement of galaxy clusters and is not related to the composition or expansion of the universe.

3. What causes dark flow?

The exact cause of dark flow is still unknown, but it is thought to be influenced by large-scale structures in the universe, such as superclusters of galaxies. These structures can exert gravitational forces on galaxy clusters, causing them to move in a specific direction.

4. How is dark flow observed?

Dark flow is observed through the measurement of the cosmic microwave background, which is the leftover radiation from the Big Bang. By analyzing the slight temperature differences in this radiation, scientists can map out the movement of galaxy clusters and detect the presence of dark flow.

5. What implications does dark flow have for our understanding of the universe?

The presence of dark flow suggests that there may be large-scale structures in the universe that are influencing the movement of galaxy clusters. This challenges our current understanding of the distribution of matter in the universe and could provide valuable insights into the nature of dark matter and dark energy. Further research on dark flow may also help us better understand the overall structure and evolution of the universe.