The prevailing theory of the universe's composition, which includes dark matter as a major component, is facing a challenge from a new University of Ottawa study.
Published in The Astrophysical Journal, the research suggests that the cosmos might not need dark matter at all. Traditionally, dark matter has been the invisible force used to explain the motions of galaxies and stars.
The study's lead, Rajendra Gupta, a physics professor, utilized a unique model combining two existing theories: covarying coupling constants (CCC) and tired light (TL). This CCC+TL model proposes that the forces of nature weaken over time and light loses energy during long-distance travel.
Intriguingly, the model aligns with various observations, including the distribution of galaxies and the evolution of light from the early universe. These findings contradict the standard model, where dark matter supposedly comprises 27% of the universe.
“Our earlier work on the universe's age,” says Gupta, “combined with this study, suggests the universe doesn't require dark matter. Standard cosmology attributes the universe's accelerated expansion to dark energy, but our model proposes it's due to weakening forces.”
Gupta analyzed data on galaxy distribution and the sound horizon size at different redshifts (shifts in light's wavelength). He emphasizes, “While other studies have questioned dark matter, mine is the first to eliminate its need while conforming to confirmed cosmological observations.”
This research, by potentially eliminating dark matter, opens exciting new avenues for comprehending the universe's fundamental properties.
Source: University of Ottawa