What is the universe composed of?

Matter, the same material that makes up everything around you, is what gives rise to the visible aspects of the universe. Matter is made up of many different elements, and elements are what form particles. Atoms are pure elements that can be further broken down into several smaller pieces,

But a significant fraction of the universe is probably composed of what is known as dark matter; the facts we currently have about it are too complex to be explained in layman's words, and our understanding of it is still very limited.

Matter is defined as anything with volume and mass, and it makes up you and everything else in the universe. Matter typically exists in one of three states on Earth:

Solids, such as rocks and minerals, are defined as a class of matter possessing a distinct shape and volume.

Liquid: Earth's rivers, lakes, and oceans are examples of matter with a defined volume but no set shape.

Matter without a defined shape or volume is referred to as a gas.

Though matter can be categorized by its physical state—solid, liquid, or gas—it is more helpful to look at its chemical composition and structure. The gases nitrogen and oxygen make up the majority of Earth's atmosphere.

Dark energy, dark matter, and normal matter (which consists of protons, neutrons, and electrons) make up the majority of the universe.