Quantitative predictions for f(R) gravity primordial gravitational waves

Abstract

In this work we shall develop a quantitative approach for extracting predictions on the primordial gravitational waves energy spectrum for f ( R ) gravity. We shall consider two distinct models which yield different phenomenology, one pure f ( R ) gravity model and one Chern–Simons corrected potential-less k -essence f ( R ) gravity model in the presence of radiation and non-relativistic perfect matter fluids. The two f ( R ) gravity models were carefully chosen in order for them to describe in a unified way inflation and the dark energy era, in both cases viable and compatible with the latest Planck data. Also both models mimic the Λ -Cold-Dark-Matter model and specifically the pure f ( R ) model only at late times, but the Chern–Simons k -essence model during the whole evolution of the model up to the radiation domination era. In addition they guarantee a smooth transition from the inflationary era to the radiation, matter domination and subsequently to the dark energy era. Using a WKB approach introduced in the relevant literature by Nishizawa, we derive formulas depending on the redshift that yield the modified gravity effect, quantified by a multiplicative factor, a “damping” in front of the General Relativistic waveform. In order to calculate the effect of the modified gravity, which is the “damping” factor, we solve numerically the Friedmann equations using appropriate initial conditions and by introducing specific statefinder quantities. As we show, the pure f ( R ) gravity gravitational wave energy spectrum is slightly enhanced, but it remains well below the sensitivity curves of future gravitational waves experiments. In contrast, the Chern–Simons k -essence f ( R ) gravity model gravitational wave energy spectrum is significantly enhanced and two signals are predicted which can be verified by future gravitational wave experiments. We discuss in detail our findings and the future perspective of modified gravity theories in view of the upcoming second and third generation experiments on primordial gravitational waves.