Abstract
If the potential of a scalar field phi which currently provides the "dark energy" of the Universe has a minimum at phi = -M(0)(4)<0, then quantum-mechanical fluctuations could nucleate a bubble of phi at a negative value of the potential. This bubble would then expand at the speed of light. Given that no such bubble enveloped us in the past, we find that any minimum in V(phi) must be separated from the current phi value by more than min[1.5M(0),0.21M(Pl)], where M(Pl) is the Planck mass. We also show that vacuum decay renders a cyclic or ekpyrotic universe with M(0)(4) > or approximately 10(-10)M(4)(Pl) untenable.
Highlights
If the potential of a scalar field φ which currently provides the “dark energy” of the universe, has a negative minimum −M04, quantum-mechanical fluctuations could nucleate a bubble of φ at a negative value of the potential
We show that vacuum decay renders a cyclic or ekpyrotic universe with M04 >∼ 10−10MP4l, untenable
One of the simplest realizations of such energy is in the form of a nearly massless cosmological scalar field φ (“quintessence”) which is rolling down a shallow potential V (φ) and leading to an accelerated expansion of the universe at the current epoch
Summary
If the potential of a scalar field φ which currently provides the “dark energy” of the universe, has a negative minimum −M04, quantum-mechanical fluctuations could nucleate a bubble of φ at a negative value of the potential. We consider a cosmological scalar field with a general potential V (φ) that varies smoothly (without a barrier) towards a minimum value of −M04 in a pit centered at φ = φmin (see Fig. 1; we use units of c = ̄h = 1).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
