Testing an exact $f(R)$-gravity model at Galactic and local scales

TL;DR

This paper investigates an $f(R) o R^{3/2}$ gravity model's ability to explain galactic rotation curves and solar system tests without dark matter, showing it can match key astrophysical and cosmological observations.

Contribution

It provides exact solutions in the weak field limit for the $f(R)$ model and demonstrates its viability as an alternative to dark matter at multiple scales.

Findings

Reproduces flat galaxy rotation curves

Matches Solar System tests via the Chameleon mechanism

Recovers the Tully-Fisher relation

Abstract

The weak field limit for a pointlike source of a $f(R) \propto R^{3/2}$-gravity model is studied. We aim to show the viability of such a model as a valid alternative to GR + dark matter at Galactic and local scales. Without considering dark matter, within the weak field approximation, we find general exact solutions for gravity with standard matter, and apply them to some astrophysical scales, recovering the consistency of the same $f(R)$-gravity model with cosmological results.}{In particular, we show that it is possible to obtain flat rotation curves for galaxies, [and consistency with] Solar System tests, as in the so-called "Chameleon Approach". In fact, the peripheral velocity $ v_\infty $ is shown to be expressed as $ v_\infty = \lambda \sqrt{M}$, so that the Tully-Fisher relation is recovered. The results point out the possibility of achieving alternative theories of gravity in which exotic ingredients like dark matter and dark energy are not necessary, while their coarse-grained astrophysical and cosmological effects can be related to a geometric origin.