Year: 2009
Type: article
Abstract: We propose a new approach to the consistency test of dark energy models with observations. To test a category of dark energy models, we suggest introducing a characteristic Q ( z ) that, in general, varies with the redshift z but, in those models, plays the role of a (constant) distinct parameter. Then, by reconstructing d Q ( z )/d z from observational data and comparing it with zero, we can assess the consistency between data and the models under consideration. For a category of models that passes the test, we can further constrain the distinct parameter of those models by reconstructing Q ( z ) from data. For demonstration, in this paper we concentrate on quintessence. In particular, we examine the exponential potential and the power-law potential via a widely used parameterization of the dark energy equation of state, w ( z )= w 0 + w a (1− a ), for data analysis. This method of the consistency test is particularly efficient because for all models we invoke the constraint of only a single parameter space that by choice can be easily accessed. The general principle of our approach is not limited to dark energy. It may also be applied to the testing of various cosmological models and even models in other fields beyond the scope of cosmology.
Source: New Journal of Physics
Authors: Je-An Gu, Chien-Wen Chen, Pisin Chen
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,610
OpenAlex ID: W2058531703