Scientists from the University of Sheffield have found evidence of potential interaction between dark matter and neutrinos. The research may indicate the existence of previously unknown processes beyond the standard cosmological model.
According to the study published in the journal Nature Astronomy, dark matter and neutrinos may not be entirely independent components of the Universe, as previously thought. Dark matter makes up about 85% of all matter, yet it has not been directly detected. Scientists infer its existence from gravitational effects on galaxies and galaxy clusters.
The authors of the study analyzed data from different stages of the Universe’s evolution. They compared observations of the early cosmos obtained with the Atacama Cosmology Telescope and Planck with later data, including observations of dark energy and maps of galaxy distribution.
Researchers noted a discrepancy between predictions of the standard cosmological model and modern observations. According to calculations based on early Universe data, cosmic structures should have become denser than what is recorded today. Potential interaction between dark matter and neutrinos could explain this difference.
The researchers caution that final conclusions are still premature. Future observations with new telescopes, experiments on cosmic microwave background radiation, and studies of gravitational lensing will help test the hypothesis. If the link between dark matter and neutrinos is confirmed, it could become a significant discovery for understanding the nature of the Universe.
About the Author
