Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: We investigate a hierarchy of interacting dark energy (IDE) models featuring a non-gravitational coupling between dark matter and dark energy. Specifically, we examine scenarios where the background interaction kernel, $Q = 3H(δ+ ηa)ρ_\mathrm{de}$, allows for both constant and dynamical coupling parameters. Adopting the Chevallier-Polarski-Linder parametrization for the dark energy equation of state, $w_\mathrm{de} = w_0 + w_a(1-a)$, we derive closed analytical expressions for the energy densities of dark matter and dark energy. Afterwards, we obtain observational constraints using joint combinations of DESI DR2 baryon acoustic oscillations, Pantheon$+$ Type Ia supernovae, and Planck$+$ACT compressed cosmic microwave background likelihoods. For constant coupling models, we find parametric deviations from $Λ$ ranging from $2.7σ$ to $2.9σ$; however, for interactions with dynamical couplings, these significances are reduced to $1.3σ$--$1.5σ$. Ultimately, our Bayesian model comparison reveals that no investigated IDE scenario is statistically preferred over the concordance $Λ$CDM model. These results highlight the necessity of reporting Bayesian evidence alongside conventional frequentist maximum-likelihood analyses to ensure robust cosmological claims concerning dark energy evolution and interaction.
Source: arXiv (Cornell University)
Authors: Artola, Mikel, Lazkoz, Ruth, Salzano, Vincenzo
Institutions: University of the Basque Country, University of Szczecin
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7157602765
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