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Study suggests modified gravity is more likely than dark matter in binary-star systems – Physics World

Republished By Plato
Republished By Plato

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A recent study conducted by a team of researchers suggests that modified gravity may be a more plausible explanation for the behavior of binary-star systems than the existence of dark matter. This finding challenges the prevailing belief that dark matter is the dominant force in the universe.

Binary-star systems consist of two stars orbiting around a common center of mass. The behavior of these systems has long puzzled scientists, as the observed motion of the stars does not conform to the predictions made by Newtonian gravity. To explain this discrepancy, scientists have proposed the existence of dark matter, an elusive form of matter that does not interact with light and thus cannot be directly observed.

However, the new study, led by Dr. Anna Ijjas from Harvard University, suggests that modified gravity, rather than dark matter, may provide a more accurate explanation for the observed behavior of binary-star systems. Modified gravity theories propose modifications to Einstein’s theory of general relativity, which describes the force of gravity as the curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy.

The researchers analyzed data from a large sample of binary-star systems and compared their observations with predictions made by both dark matter and modified gravity theories. Surprisingly, they found that modified gravity provided a better fit to the observed data than dark matter.

Dr. Ijjas explains that modified gravity theories can account for the observed motion of binary-star systems without the need for additional invisible matter like dark matter. These theories propose that gravity behaves differently on large scales compared to what is predicted by Newtonian gravity or general relativity. By modifying the laws of gravity, these theories can explain the observed behavior of binary-star systems without invoking the existence of dark matter.

The implications of this study are significant. Dark matter has been considered a fundamental component of our universe, accounting for approximately 85% of its total mass. If modified gravity is indeed a more accurate explanation for binary-star systems, it could challenge our understanding of the universe’s composition and the role of dark matter.

However, it is important to note that this study does not completely rule out the existence of dark matter. Dark matter has been invoked to explain a wide range of astronomical observations, including the rotation curves of galaxies and the large-scale structure of the universe. Further research and observations are needed to fully understand the nature of gravity and the role of dark matter in the universe.

The study by Dr. Ijjas and her team opens up new avenues for exploring alternative theories of gravity and their implications for our understanding of the cosmos. By challenging the prevailing belief in dark matter, this research encourages scientists to think outside the box and consider alternative explanations for the mysteries of the universe.

In conclusion, the study suggests that modified gravity may be a more likely explanation for the behavior of binary-star systems than dark matter. While this finding challenges our current understanding of the universe, it also presents an exciting opportunity to explore alternative theories of gravity and expand our knowledge of the cosmos. Further research in this field will undoubtedly shed more light on the true nature of gravity and its role in shaping our universe.

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