The comparison between dark matter and the concept of ether in the context of the Standard Cosmological Model is not entirely accurate. The reasons for treating dark matter differently from ether are rooted in scientific observations, empirical evidence, and the evolution of scientific understanding over time. Let's explore these aspects in more detail:
Observational Evidence: Dark matter is invoked to explain various observed phenomena in the universe, such as the rotational curves of galaxies, the motions of galaxy clusters, and the gravitational lensing effects. These observations suggest the existence of additional mass beyond what can be accounted for by visible matter. The gravitational effects of dark matter are well-established, even though its precise nature remains elusive. In contrast, the concept of ether was proposed as a hypothetical medium that was supposed to permeate all space and act as a medium for the transmission of light. However, subsequent experimental evidence, such as the Michelson-Morley experiment, contradicted the predictions based on the existence of ether.
Theoretical Consistency: The incorporation of dark matter into the Standard Cosmological Model (Lambda-CDM model) provides a framework that is consistent with general relativity and other aspects of our current understanding of physics. Dark matter is considered a crucial component for explaining the observed large-scale structure of the universe, as well as the cosmic microwave background radiation. The concept of ether, on the other hand, was introduced to explain the behavior of light and electromagnetic waves but was eventually deemed unnecessary as new theories, like special relativity, emerged that could explain these phenomena without invoking ether.
Scientific Progress: The scientific community's approach to dark matter differs from the treatment of ether due to the advancement of scientific methods and technology. While ether was proposed at a time when experimental techniques were relatively limited, the understanding of the universe has significantly progressed since then. Modern scientific instruments, such as telescopes and particle detectors, have allowed for the detection of indirect evidence for dark matter, such as its gravitational effects and its impact on the large-scale structure of the cosmos. Scientists continue to investigate and explore the nature of dark matter through a variety of experimental and observational approaches.
It's important to note that scientific theories and models are subject to revision as new evidence emerges. However, the acceptance of dark matter in the scientific community is based on a convergence of observational, theoretical, and experimental evidence, which distinguishes it from the historical treatment of ether.