Work

Nature of Phase Transitions and Metastability in Scalar-Tensor Theories

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Compact stars above a critical stellar mass develop large scalar fields in some scalar-tensor theories. This scenario called spontaneous scalarization has been an intense topic of study since it passes weak-field gravity tests naturally while providing clear observables in the strong-field regime. The underlying mechanism for the onset of scalarization is often depicted as a second-order phase transition. Here, we show that a first-order phase transition is in fact the most common mechanism. This means metastability and transitions between locally stable compact object configurations are much more likely than previously believed, opening vast new avenues for observational prospects.

Source: Physical Review Letters

DOI: 10.1103/14xz-d7xf

Authors: K𝚤vanç İ. Ünlütürk, Semih Tuna, Oğuzhan K. Yamak, Fethi M. Ramazanoğlu

Institutions: Koç University, Türkisch-Deutsche Universität, Columbia University

Language: English

Topic: Pulsars and Gravitational Waves Research

Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu, Koç Üniversitesi

Award: Kütle Çekiminin Nötron Yıldızlarıyla Imtihanı