Controversial new theory of gravity rules out need for dark matter

Exclusive: Paper by UCL professor says ‘wobbly’ space-time could instead explain expansion of universe and galactic rotationDark matter is supposed to account for 85% of the mass in the universe, according to conventional scientific wisdom. But proponents of a radical new theory of gravity, in whichspace-time is “wobbly”, say their approach could render the elusive substance obsolete.The proposition, outlined in a new paper, raises the controversial possibility that dark matter, which has never been directly observed, is a mirage that a substantial portion of the physics community has been chasing for several decades. The theory is viewed as quite left-field and is yet to be thoroughly tested, but the latest claims are creating a stir in the world of physics.Announcing the paper on X, Prof Jonathan Oppenheim, of University College London, said: “Folks, something seems to be happening. We show that our theory of gravity … can explain the expansion of the universe and galactic rotation without dark matter or dark energy.”Continue reading...

Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - March 9, 2024 Category: Science Authors: Hannah Devlin Science correspondent Tags: Physics Astronomy Science Space UCL (University College London) UK news Source Type: news