Work

Ghost-free, gauge invariant SVT generalizations of Horndeski theory

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We analyze the generalizations of Kaluza–Klein compactifications of 5D Horndeski theory. They are Scalar–Vector–Tensor (SVT) theories with higher derivatives in the action, but with second order equations of motion. The vector field is invariant under a U(1) gauge transformation and the Scalar–Tensor sector corresponds to Horndeski theory. A subclass of these SVT theories is such that the Horndeski functions $$G_4(\pi ,X)$$ G 4 ( π , X ) and $$G_5(\pi )$$ G 5 ( π ) remain free, while the speed of the tensor and vector modes is exactly the same. We show a subclass where the vector sector retains freedom through new functions of $$\pi ,\, X$$ π , X while the speed of the vector modes still tracks the speed of the tensor modes.

Source: The European Physical Journal C

DOI: 10.1140/epjc/s10052-025-15125-6

Authors: S. Mironov, A. Shtennikova, M. Valencia-Villegas

Institutions: Lomonosov Moscow State University, Kurchatov Institute, Institute for Nuclear Research

Language: English

Topic: Cosmology and Gravitation Theories

Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Russian Science Foundation

Award: G5394013039