Intergalactic Medium

The intergalactic medium is the vast, mostly empty space between galaxies filled with a low-density mixture of gas, dust, and radiation. It contains hot, ionized hydrogen and is important for understanding the universe's structure and evolution. While it seems nearly empty, it plays a crucial role in the life cycle of galaxies, acting as a reservoir of materials for star formation and influencing galactic behavior. Studying the intergalactic medium helps scientists learn about cosmic forces, the distribution of matter, and the history of the universe itself.