Final answer:
The early universe's higher density regions attracted more matter due to their gravitational pull, stopped expanding, and collapsed into structures that merged to form galaxies and clusters, supporting the development of life as we know it.
Step-by-step explanation:
The early universe contained tiny density fluctuations from which galaxies, clusters, and superclusters of galaxies eventually evolved. Regions of higher-than-average density within these fluctuations attracted more matter due to their increased gravitational pull, leading to growth and changes in density and temperature. These dense regions initially expanded with the universe but ultimately stopped expanding and began to collapse into irregularly shaped clumps and elongated structures.
Over time, as the universe continued to expand, these structures merged and formed the large-scale cosmic structures we observe today. The universe built itself from the 'bottom up,' starting with the smallest structures like globular clusters and dwarf galaxies, which later merged to form larger galaxies and eventually galaxy clusters and superclusters. The delicate balance of these processes was crucial for the universe to be conducive to life as we know it, requiring density fluctuations to be 'just right,' enabling structure to form without collapsing into black holes or tearing apart, thus allowing the eventual emergence of stars, planets, and life.