What Is Dark Matter? Simple Explanation

Understanding What Dark Matter Is

Dark matter is a mysterious, invisible form of matter that does not emit or reflect light. Scientists know it exists because its gravity affects galaxies, stars, and the structure of the universe.

How Dark Matter Works

Dark matter interacts mainly through gravity. It pulls galaxies together and prevents them from flying apart, even though it cannot be seen directly with telescopes.

Why Dark Matter Matters

Dark matter helps explain how galaxies form and stay stable. It also makes up most of the mass in the universe, influencing its expansion and large-scale structure.

The Simple Takeaway

Dark matter is invisible material that shapes the universe through gravity. We cannot see it yet, but its effects reveal that it plays a major role in cosmic structure.