Which is a characteristic of dark matter?
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1 point
it does not interact with baryonic matter
it has not been observed directly.
it interacts with electromagnetic radiation.
humans can see it
1 point
it does not interact with baryonic matter
The characteristic of dark matter is that it does not interact with baryonic matter.
The characteristic of dark matter is that it does not interact with baryonic matter. To understand this, we need to look at how scientists study and learn about dark matter.
Dark matter is a type of matter that does not emit, absorb, or reflect electromagnetic radiation, such as light. This means it cannot be seen directly with our eyes or traditional telescopes. Instead, scientists study the effects of its gravitational pull on other visible matter.
One commonly used method to study dark matter is through gravitational lensing. This phenomenon occurs when the gravitational pull of a massive object, like a dark matter halo, bends the path of light from a background object. By observing the bending of light, scientists can indirectly detect the presence of dark matter.
Another method is observing the rotation curves of galaxies. Visible matter, such as stars and gas, should follow a predictable pattern of rotation based on its mass. However, observations indicate that galaxies are rotating faster than expected, suggesting the presence of additional unseen mass - dark matter.
In summary, dark matter does not interact with baryonic matter, meaning it neither emits nor absorbs light or other forms of electromagnetic radiation. Therefore, it cannot be directly observed, and its presence is inferred from its gravitational effects on visible matter.