What observational evidence led scientists to infer the existence of dark matter?
Answer
Stars on the outer edges of galaxies rotating too quickly to be held by visible matter alone
Observations showed that stars on galactic peripheries rotate much faster than expected based only on the gravitational pull of visible matter. Dark matter's immense gravitational influence is inferred to provide the necessary extra 'glue' to prevent these structures from tearing apart.
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What Holds the Universe Together? The Fundamental Forces
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