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The ΛCDM model is a widely accepted cosmology theory that explains the universe’s structure and evolution. Observational and experimental data strongly support it. However, the two key components—cold dark matter (making up about 25% of the universe) and dark energy (about 70%)—are still mysterious, and scientists are working to understand their true nature.
A Dartmouth professor and a physics-mathematics student propose a new theory on the origin of dark matter—the invisible substance shaping the universe. Their research suggests dark matter may have formed in the early universe from high-energy massless particles colliding and gaining mass instantly after pairing up.
Though still hypothetical, dark matter is believed to exist due to unexplained gravitational effects and is estimated to make up 85% of the universe’s total mass. Unlike previous theories, this new idea can be tested using existing data. If correct, these extremely low-energy particles would leave a unique mark on the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB), the lingering radiation from the Big Bang.
