Half the universe was missing... until now

The video explores the missing baryon problem, explaining that while baryonic matter should make up 5% of the universe, only 2.5% is observed. It discusses the formation of elements post-Big Bang and the use of cosmic microwave background radiation to estimate baryon density. The search for missing baryons involves quasars and the Lyman Alpha forest, revealing that much baryonic matter is in the warm hot intergalactic medium (WHIM). Fast radio bursts help detect ionized baryons, confirming the WHIM's role. The video concludes with reflections on scientific discovery.

Discuss the significance of the cosmic microwave background radiation in understanding the early universe.

Explain the role of quasars in detecting baryonic matter.

What does the term 'Lyman Alpha forest' refer to in the context of neutral hydrogen gas?

What are the implications of finding that only 10-20% of baryonic matter is in stars and galaxies?