Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) Model

The Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) model is the leading framework in cosmology that describes how the universe has evolved. It combines dark energy (Lambda, Λ), which drives the universe's accelerated expansion, with cold dark matter (CDM), a mysterious form of matter that doesn't emit light but influences structure formation. Together, these components explain the universe's large-scale structure, the cosmic microwave background, and galaxy distribution. Essentially, ΛCDM provides a comprehensive picture of a universe expanding over time, shaped by both visible and unseen matter, and influenced by dark energy.