Abstract / Description of output
We describe the cosmological evolution predicted by three distinct $f(R)$ theories, with emphasis on the evolution of linear perturbations. The most promising observational tools for distinguishing $f(R)$ theories from $\Lambda$CDM are those intrinsically related to the growth of structure, such as weak lensing. At the linear level, the enhancement in the gravitational potential provided by the additional $f(R)$ `fifth force' can separate the theories, whereas at the background level they can be indistinguishable. Under the stringent constraints imposed on the models by Solar System tests and galaxy-formation criteria, we show that the relative difference between the models' linear evolution of the lensing potential will be extremely hard to detect even with future space-based experiments such as {\it Euclid}, with a maximum value of approximately 4% for small scales. We also show the evolution of the gravitational potentials under more relaxed local constraint conditions, where the relative difference between these models and $\Lambda$CDM could prove discriminating.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 043521 |
Journal | Physical Review D, particles, fields, gravitation, and cosmology |
Volume | 88 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 5 Jul 2013 |
Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)
- astro-ph.CO