What we infer from what we can see
Dark matter is inferred from gravitational effects that visible matter alone does not adequately explain.
In 30 seconds
- Galaxy motions and gravitational lensing provide lines of evidence.
- Its underlying nature remains an open question.
- Dark matter and dark energy are different concepts.
Make it concrete
An unseen wind can be inferred from moving leaves. This analogy explains indirect evidence, not the physical nature of dark matter.
- 01Observation
- 02Gravitational effects
- 03Test models
Check your understanding
Do scientists already know exactly what dark matter is made of?
- Galaxy motions and gravitational lensing provide lines of evidence.
- Its underlying nature remains an open question.
- Dark matter and dark energy are different concepts.
Go to the source
Sources reviewed: 13.09.2026