Prepared by
Alexander Ray
Prepared for
Jennifer Weinberg-Wolf
Astronomy with Lab
SCI-224-62451
DeVry University, Arlington VA
December 8, 2012
Table of Contents Abstract 3 Dark Matter Dark Introduction 4 Dark Matter Conceptualized 4 Dark Matter Compositional Theories 5 The Role Dark Matter Plays 5 Dark Energy Conceptualized 6 What is Dark Energy 6 The Dark Energy, Dark Matter Relationship 7 Conclusion 7 Works Cited 8
Abstract
It is the intent of this paper to introduce the relatively recent theories of dark matter and dark energy and their relation to each other. These theories explain the observed increase in expansion rate of the Universe as well as explain why galaxies remain intact despite the apparent lack of sufficient mass to affect the gravitational forces needed for cohesion, especially when considering that galaxies rotate at speeds that should disperse their stellar composition away from its core.
Dark Matter Dark Introduction
Our understanding of the Universe is ever evolving as new discoveries are made, challenging what we have always believed. Some struggle to grasp an explanation of those new discoveries and the phenomena presented. These new discoveries are made possible with the advancement of new technologies and capabilities. The advent of powerful radio telescopes and imaging telescopes like the Hubble Space Telescope that allows one to observe the cosmos with much more fidelity. Two recent theories to explain what comprises our universe that have taken shape are the presence of dark matter and dark energy. To garner an understanding of the theories that surround dark energy and dark matter, one needs to explore what comprises dark matter and dark energy, the role they play within the universe and the relationship between dark matter and dark energy.
Dark Matter Conceptualized
For centuries, our understanding of the Universe was shaped by what we could physically see;
Cited: Banchi, E., & Rovelli, C. (2010, 15 July). Is dark energy really a mystery? Nature, 466, 321-322. Caldwell, R., & Kamionkowski, M. (2009, April). Dark matter and dark energy. Nature, 458(), 587-589. Dark Energy, Dark Matter . (2012). In R. Netting (Ed.), Dark Energy, Dark Matter . Retrieved from http://science.nasa.gov/astrophysics/focus-areas/what-is-dark-energy/ Hooper, D. (2013, January). Dark Matter in the Discovery Age. Sky & Telescope, 125, 26-32. Retrieved from http://web.ebscohost.com Kirshner, R. P. (2003, Jun 20). Throwing Light on Dark Energy. Science, 300, 1914-1918. NASA. (2012). Dark Matter. Retrieved December 09, 2012, from http://chandra.harvard.edu/xray_astro/dark_matter/ Panek, R. (2010, April). Dark-Energy-The-Biggest-Mystery-in-the-Universe. Smithsonian magazine. Retrieved from http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/Dark-Energy-The-Biggest-Mystery-in-the-Universe.html Rishwanm. (2008, Aug 9). Dark Matter & Dark Energy [Video file]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4f40oAAmeyA