Qualitative analysis of Brans-Dicke universes with a cosmological constant
- Univ. of California, Santa Barbara, CA (United States)
Solutions to flat space Friedmann-Robertson-Walker cosmologies in Brans-Dicke theory with a cosmological constant are investigated. The matter is modeled as a {gamma}-law perfect fluid. The field equations are reduced from fourth order to second order through a change of variables, and the resulting two-dimensional system is analyzed using dynamical system theory. When the Brans-Dicke coupling constant is positive ({omega}>0), all initially expanding models approach exponential expansion at late times, regardless of the type of matter present. If ({omega} < 0), then a wide variety of qualitatively distinct models are present, including nonsingular {open_quotes}bounce{close_quotes} universes, {open_quotes}vacillating{close_quotes} universes, and, in the special case of {omega} = -1, models which approach stable Minkowski spacetime with an exponentially increasing scalar field at late times. Since power-law solutions do not exist, none of the models appears to offer any advantage over the standard deSitter solution of general relativity in achieving a graceful exit from inflation. 17 refs., 4 figs., 2 tabs.
- OSTI ID:
- 241203
- Journal Information:
- Annals of Physics (New York), Journal Name: Annals of Physics (New York) Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 246; ISSN 0003-4916; ISSN APNYA6
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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