Is it possible that "dark matter" is a side effect?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility that the effects of "dark matter" may not be caused by matter at all, but rather another aspect of the universe. However, it is proven that there must be some form of matter, as shown by the effects of dark matter interactions, particularly the 'Bullet Cluster' phenomenon. While theories with modified gravity have been considered, they do not fit observations as well as the dark matter hypothesis.
  • #1
SCSF
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0
How do we know that the effects of "dark matter" are not merely a failure of some other aspect of general relativity? Could it be that it is not matter at all but instead some placeholder for another aspect of our universe, or is it proven that there must be some form of 'matter', so to speak? If so, what is this proof?

I understand that there is some forms of radiation which we predict results from dark matter interactions, and I admit I don't have full understanding of this topic, but I am curious as to why dark 'matter' is a popular theory, and not some other explanation for the discrepancies we observe.

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
Google 'Bullet Cluster'.

The implications should convince you that DM is most likely a real phenom of some sort of particle. While not definitive, it all but rules out 'tweaks to gravity' theories.
 
  • #3
Theories with modified gravity have been considered by the scientific community for quite some time. At the moment, they simply do not fit observations as well as the dark matter hypothesis.
 

Related to Is it possible that "dark matter" is a side effect?

1. What is "dark matter"?

"Dark matter" is an invisible type of matter that does not emit or interact with light, making it difficult to detect. It is believed to make up about 85% of the total matter in the universe.

2. How is dark matter related to the concept of "side effects"?

The term "side effects" typically refers to unintended consequences of a specific action or event. In the case of dark matter, some scientists theorize that it may be a side effect of other physical phenomena or processes in the universe that we have not yet fully understood.

3. What evidence supports the idea that dark matter is a side effect?

There is currently no definitive evidence that dark matter is a side effect. This is still a hypothesis that is being explored and studied by scientists. However, some observations in the universe, such as the rotation of galaxies and gravitational lensing, suggest that there is more matter present than what we can observe with traditional methods, which supports the idea of dark matter as a side effect.

4. Are there any alternative explanations for dark matter?

Yes, there are alternative theories and hypotheses that attempt to explain the observations and phenomenon that are currently attributed to dark matter. Some of these include modified theories of gravity, axions, and primordial black holes. However, none of these theories have been able to fully explain all of the observed effects of dark matter.

5. How is the search for dark matter being conducted?

Scientists are using a variety of methods to search for dark matter, including direct detection experiments, indirect detection through astronomical observations, and collider experiments. These methods aim to either directly detect the particles that make up dark matter or observe their effects on the surrounding environment.

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