Dark Matter Self-Interaction refers to the hypothetical interactions that dark matter particles may have with one another, distinct from their interaction with ordinary matter. This concept arises from the observation that the distribution of dark matter in galaxies and galaxy clusters does not always align with predictions made by models that assume dark matter is completely non-interacting. One potential consequence of self-interacting dark matter (SIDM) is that it could help explain certain astrophysical phenomena, such as the observed core formation in galaxy halos, which is inconsistent with the predictions of traditional cold dark matter models.
If dark matter particles do interact, this could lead to a range of observable effects, including changes in the density profiles of galaxies and the dynamics of galaxy clusters. The self-interaction cross-section becomes crucial in these models, as it quantifies the likelihood of dark matter particles colliding with each other. Understanding these interactions could provide pivotal insights into the nature of dark matter and its role in the evolution of the universe.
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