Year: 1997
Type: preprint
Abstract: We review recent progress in the study of varying constants and attempts to explain the observed values of the fundamental physical constants. We describe the variation of $G$ in Newtonian and relativistic scalar-tensor gravity theories. We highlight the behaviour of the isotropic Friedmann solutions and consider some striking features of primordial black hole formation and evaporation if $G$ varies. We discuss attempts to explain the values of the constants and show how we can incorporate the simultaneou s variations of several 'constants' exactly by using higher-dimensional unified theories. Finally, we describe some new observational limits on possible space or time variations of the fine structure constant.
Source: arXiv (Cornell University)
Author: Barrow, John D.
Institution: University of Sussex
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2950478604