No, dark matter and dark energy are not the same thing. They are distinct and have opposite effects on the universe:
Dark Matter:
- Attractive force: Dark matter exerts a gravitational pull, holding galaxies together.
- Role: It's essential for the formation and structure of galaxies and galaxy clusters.
Dark Energy:
- Repulsive force: Dark energy acts like a force pushing galaxies apart.
- Role: It's responsible for the accelerating expansion of the universe.
In simple terms:
- Dark matter: Like glue, holding things together.
- Dark energy: Like anti-gravity, pushing things apart.
Key takeaway: They are both invisible and mysterious, but they have fundamentally different effects on the universe.
