Density-Regulated Scalar–Matter Coupling via the Higgs Portal: Distinction, Correspondence, and Unification Across Scalar Field Theories
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Scalar fields are widely employed across cosmology, gravitational theory, and particle physics, yet existing scalar frameworks are typically constructed for domain-specific purposes and remain structurally fragmented. This work presents a structured comparative analysis of scalar field theories, introducing a consistent evaluation framework based on coupling mechanism, environmental dependence, universality, scale of applicability, and mathematical structure. Within this context, the paper examines a scalar formulation in which a gauge-invariant singlet field couples to the Standard Model via a Higgs-sector portal, with interaction strength explicitly modulated by coarse-grained baryonic mass density (Σ), within General Expanse Tension Theory (GETT). In contrast to existing approaches—where environmental effects are absent, indirect, or realised through screening—the GETT framework introduces continuous density-regulated coupling at the Lagrangian level, establishing baryonic density as a direct physical control parameter governing scalar–matter interactions. The analysis demonstrates that this combination of density-regulated coupling, continuous environmental modulation, and Higgs-sector integration constitutes a distinct and previously unrepresented class of scalar field theory within the literature surveyed. At the same time, the framework incorporates elements that appear separately across established models, unifying them within a single interaction structure. A comprehensive set of appendices (A–O) provides detailed treatment of existing scalar theories—including quintessence, k-essence, chameleon, symmetron, Horndeski, DHOST, axion-like fields, Higgs-portal models, and scalar field dark matter—ensuring that the comparative conclusions are grounded in an exhaustive review of the field. The results position the GETT density-regulated scalar coupling as a novel theoretical framework with potential implications for the unification of scalar field physics across cosmological, astrophysical, and particle regimes, and for observational tests based on density-dependent behaviour in gravitational systems.
Author: Holland, John
Institution: Institution of Mechanical Engineers
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7140076378