- Astronomers see very large black holes in the early universe.
- These black holes appear soon after the Big Bang.
- Scientists do not know how they grew so fast.
- A research idea looks at dark matter.
- Dark matter can slowly decay and give small energy.
- That small energy can change gas chemistry.
- Some gas clouds can then collapse into black holes.
- Collapsed clouds make black holes instead of stars.
Difficult words
- black hole — a space object with very strong gravityblack holes
- dark matter — invisible substance in space with mass
- collapse — fall inward to a smaller shape or size
- energy — power that can make things move or change
- chemistry — study of substances and how they change
- universe — all space, stars, planets and galaxies
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you find space interesting?
- Would you like to learn about black holes?
- Have you heard of the Big Bang?
Related articles
Engineered bacteria produce tagatose sweetener
Tufts researchers engineered Escherichia coli to make tagatose, a rare sugar that can substitute for table sugar. They used a slime mold enzyme and another enzyme to convert glucose, producing higher yields; tagatose is low‑calorie and FDA‑recognized as safe.
Ice storm damages power systems in eastern US
A massive winter storm with ice and freezing rain is hitting the eastern United States and has cut electricity for more than a million customers. Officials, utilities and researchers are working to restore power and study grid resilience.
Study: Low numbers of women in science academies
An international analysis finds women made up about 19% of academy members in 2025, with little change in recent years. The report highlights leadership gaps, higher reports of harassment, and calls for stronger gender equality measures.
