Abstract
Although the standard lambda cold dark matter cosmological model is quite successful in describing the universe, there are still several issues that are still not resolved. Some of these are the cosmological constant problem, certain anomalies in the cosmic microwave background radiation and whether general relativity is valid on large scales. Therefore, it is interesting to examine modified theories in an attempt to solve these problems, and to examine the entire range of possibilities that are allowed. In this work, we examine one of these modified theories, viz., f(R,T) gravity. We study the homogeneous and isotropic models in this theory, which have some pleasing features, such as no initial singularity, a dynamic cosmological term, and a transition from early deceleration to late-time acceleration as intimated by observations. The physical parameters of the model, as well as the energy conditions, are discussed and a viable cosmological model can be constructed.
Highlights
The most widely accepted theory to study the evolution of the universe is, undoubtedly, Einstein’s general theory of relativity, which predicts that the universe was condensed into a very small, hot, and dense state initially, and expanded
We find a model that exhibits a transition from deceleration in the past, to current acceleration
This paper is based on results presented at the “1st International Electronic Conference on Universe” and is a much extended version of the abbreviated paper that appeared in the conference proceedings [54]
Summary
The most widely accepted theory to study the evolution of the universe is, undoubtedly, Einstein’s general theory of relativity, which predicts that the universe was condensed into a very small, hot, and dense state initially, and expanded. The most favoured explanation for dark energy is Einstein’s cosmological constant [8,9] which is obtained by adding a cosmological constant to the equations of Einstein’s standard Friedmann–Lemaitre–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) equations, and leads to the lambda cold dark matter or concordance model [6] This has a solution that includes accelerated expansion and it is widely accepted as the best solution to the dark energy problem [10]. The T dependence in the action of f ( R, T ) theory could conceivably be due to the existence of some imperfection as there can be some quantum effects, such as intrinsic particle production [38] This theory allows for an explanation of accelerated expansion without dark energy, and for an avoidance of the initial singularity. This paper is based on results presented at the “1st International Electronic Conference on Universe” and is a much extended version of the abbreviated paper that appeared in the conference proceedings [54]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
