Students are introduced to dark matter. Scientists think this mysterious substance makes up most of the mass in the universe- but because dark matter does not reveal its presence by emitting any type of electromagnetic radiation, visible proof of its existence is elusive. Students apply their understanding of the effects of gravity as they examine some of the phenomena that hint at the existence of dark matter.
Educator Resource: Presentation
Dark Matter–It's A Matter of Gravity!
Does dark matter exist, or is gravity wrong? Students utilize their understanding of the effects of gravity to consider the scientific phenomena used to support the dark matter theory.
Level
Middle School