Extended structure of dark matter

In summary, dark matter does not have charge but does have mass, making it unlikely to be found in the galaxy's edge as uncharged black holes. Dark matter does not form aggregations under gravity like ordinary matter, but rather forms diffuse structures due to gravity. The idea of conglomerates of dark and charged matter is not supported by current evidence.
  • #1
Loren Booda
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Since pure dark matter apparently does not have charge but has mass, might it be found in the galaxy's edge as something akin to uncharged black holes?

Typically, pure dark matter is invoked as particles. Wouldn't they form aggregations under gravity?

Extended (i.e., not particulate) dark matter, analogous to uncollapsed stars where electromagnetism is normally present, seems to me to be ruled out.

This leaves conglomerates of dark and charged matter further to the imagination.
 
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  • #2
Dark matter does not clump as does ordinary matter. When DM particles meet, they simply pass right through one another. Gravity causes DM to form extended, diffuse structures of relatively uniform density.
 

Related to Extended structure of dark matter

1. What is dark matter?

Dark matter is a type of matter that does not interact with light or electromagnetic radiation, and therefore cannot be directly observed. It is estimated to make up about 85% of the total matter in the universe, and its presence is inferred through its gravitational effects on visible matter.

2. What is the extended structure of dark matter?

The extended structure of dark matter refers to the distribution of dark matter throughout the universe. While the exact nature of dark matter is still unknown, scientists believe that it forms a large-scale cosmic web, with dense clumps connected by filaments, surrounding vast voids.

3. How do scientists study the extended structure of dark matter?

Scientists use a variety of methods to study the extended structure of dark matter, including gravitational lensing, galaxy rotation curves, and simulations. These techniques allow them to map out the distribution of dark matter and understand its effects on visible matter.

4. How does the extended structure of dark matter affect the formation of galaxies?

The extended structure of dark matter plays a crucial role in the formation of galaxies. The dense clumps of dark matter act as gravitational seeds, pulling in and accumulating visible matter, which eventually forms into galaxies. The filaments of dark matter also guide the motion of visible matter in galaxies.

5. What are the implications of understanding the extended structure of dark matter?

Understanding the extended structure of dark matter can provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of the universe. It can also help us better understand the nature of dark matter itself and potentially lead to new discoveries in physics. Additionally, knowledge of the extended structure of dark matter can aid in further research on topics such as galaxy formation, the large-scale structure of the universe, and the search for dark matter particles.

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