Final answer:
The distribution of galaxies and large-scale structures in the universe, such as superclusters and filaments, is the result of the gravitational instability of cold dark matter. Over cosmic time, small dark matter structures coalesced to form the complex web of galaxies we see today, a process influenced by gravity and the initial density fluctuations after the Big Bang.
Step-by-step explanation:
The wide-scale distribution of dark matter plays a crucial role in the formation of galaxies and other large-scale structures in the universe. After the Big Bang, the universe was nearly homogeneous and isotropic, but over time, gravitational instability caused areas of slightly denser matter to attract more matter. This process led to the formation of small structures which eventually merged to create galaxies, clusters of galaxies, and superclusters. These superclusters and galaxies are often found within filamentary networks, vast structures that span across millions of light-years. Galaxy formation theory must explain how early condensations of dark matter led to the contemporary structures we observe. Today's models propose that dark matter seeds grew in size due to gravitational forces, resulting in the large structures - including voids and filaments - seen in the universe. Observations and simulations, such as those from supercomputer calculations, show how these structures evolved from a smooth early universe to the complex web of galaxies and voids present now. Understanding galaxy evolution and the influence of dark matter and gravity over cosmic time is key to elucidating the universe's large-scale structure. Astronomers continue to refine models to fit the evidence collected, such as the cosmic microwave background radiation and the distribution of galaxies and their clusters, to support the theories of cold dark matter and structure formation.