Introduction:
The proposed field of research in dark energy has the potential of creating vast amounts of clean energy for humankind. However, the proposals are still in the preliminary stages, and there are debates about the suitability of having carrying out the research. The proponents seek to expand the existing body of knowledge with the aim of opening up further applications and hence justifying the initial costs and faith put on them. The proposal, along with its implications, has some advantages and disadvantages. Research into dark matter would serve to satisfy Intellectual curiosity. People are curious about the properties of this different kind of matter. The proposed research would add to the body of knowledge and reduce the incidences of speculation (Gates, 2009).
Thesis:
The study of dark matter and dark energy will provide answers to many scientific queries and this justifies its study.
Argument:
Dark energy comprises basically of the energy that cannot be observed. Scientists approximate that dark energy comprises about 68% of the universe and this is a major reason why efforts are being made to further its study (Gates, 2009).
One of the themes of the world today is environmental conservation. The available sources of energy degrade the environment, and their use makes conservational efforts futile (Jackson, 2008). A new source of clean energy would boost these efforts; hence, the research into dark energy is welcome if there is a possibility of it providing an answer. Scientists believe that the dark energy can be harnessed and converted into fuel. Its potential for the provision of energy use justifies the study of dark energy. Dark energy is believed to comprise more than half of the energy in the universe (Gates, 2009).
Scientists believe that the dark energy contributes to the expansion of the universe.There is a vacuum of knowledge pertaining to the origin of the universe and its dimensions. This new body of information regarding dark energy would push the existing boundaries further, and hence help answer the age-old questions that pertain to the origin of the universe. While this may not have practical use, this curious topic captures the interest and imagination of many people (Jackson, 2008).
There are scientists who belive dark energy is the force that holds the universe together. There are indications that it comprises more than half the energy in the universe. Because it is so poorly understood, there may be risks that emenate from it. As with most sciences when they are in their infancy there are a number of controversies regarding dark matter. One of these is that no one can say for certain what dark matter or dark energy is (Ferguson, 2005). There is also a belief among some individuals that the matter does not interact with light and, thus, the name dark energy.Lastly, another major concern is that the dark energy as proposed holds our universe together and allows for timely expansions. Scientists are also probing in the dark when it comes to dark energy
The cost factor is another element regarding the scientific investigation of dark energy; without a clear indication that there is a likelihood of success, it is difficult for scientists to get the necessary funding to conduct experiments. Projects that deal with dark matter are very expensive due its rare nature. These expenses inhibit the processes of research, especially at a time when the world is emerging from a financial recession. There are other sources of energy whose research costs much less, and which have more applications. They include organic sources of energy and Nuclear power.
There is also the matter of volatility. In the book angels and demons, Dan Brown proposes that the slightest contact with regular matter results in reactions that release colossal amounts of energy (Brown 2001). Though this book is fictional, the idea proposes that having dark matter is dangerous because it is bound to be used to make bombs, and research suggests these bombs are more powerful that the atom bombs (Ferguson, 2005). The world does not need more weapons of mass destruction. Dark matter is very volatile and difficult to handle
Though the substance is estimated to be abundant, there are no samples and the available samples have to be manufactured. This leads to the question of its viability as a source of energy (Ferguson, 2005). For dark matter to be utilized, it has to be accessible in its natural form. This is because manufacturing it consumes a great deal of energy. At this point in the scientific study of dark matter the project would lack viability, even if scientists somehow came up with a method to harness its power (Gates, 2009).
Conclusion
Although there are many hurdles to overcome, there are vast potential benefits that may be gained from the scientific study of dark energy. It has a potential to provide vast amounts of energy that can eventually be harnessed to supply all humankind’s needs. This line of study will also provide insight into the nature and expansion of the universe. For these reasons alone the study of dark matter and dark energy will provide answers to many scientific queries and this justifies its study.
Bibliography
Brown, D. (2001). Angles and Demons. London, UK: Corgi Books.
Furgueson, H. C. (2005). A Decade of Dark Energy. Space Telescope Science Institute Symposium. Baltimore, MD, USA: Space Telescope Science Institute.
Gates, E. (2009). Eienstein's Telescope: The hunt for dark matter and dark energy in the universe. New York, NY, USA: W.W. Norton.
Jackson, E. (2008). The Mysterious Universe: Supernovas, dark energy and black holes. Boston, MA, USA: Houghton MifflinnBooks.
