Slow expansion in the scalar-tensor theory of gravity

Abstract

In this paper, we analyze the slow expansion scenario in the scalar-tensor theory of gravity. After considering the slow expansion solution H≃0, we discuss the slow expansion in the scalar-tensor theory by terms of the nearly scale-invariant primordial power spectrum and find that the primordial power spectrum can be determined by the coupling function f(φ). After the slow expansion phase ends, general relativity can be recovered under certain conditions, and then the universe evolves in accordance with the standard cosmology. In the scalar-tensor theory, the slow expansion scenario provides a possible way to avoid the big bang singularity.