Friedmann-like solutions with a non-vanishing Weyl tensor

TL;DR

This paper presents new Friedmann-like solutions in general relativity with non-zero Weyl tensor and anisotropic pressure, revealing regular, singularity-free spacetimes that could mimic dark matter effects.

Contribution

It introduces a class of exact solutions with non-vanishing Weyl tensor and anisotropic pressure, expanding the understanding of cosmological models beyond standard isotropic cases.

Findings

Solutions are regular everywhere except at the initial singularity.

Anisotropic pressure can mimic dark matter effects.

Test particle motion confirms maximal extension of the spacetime.

Abstract

We have solved the Einstein equations of general relativity for a class of metrics with constant spatial curvature and found a non-vanishing Weyl tensor in the presence of an energy-momentum tensor with an anisotropic pressure component. The time evolution of the spacetime is guided by the usual Friedmann equations and the constraints on the hypersurface comprise a separated system of equations that can be independently solved. Contrary to the apparent behavior induced by some choices of coordinates, the metric we have obtained is completely regular everywhere and is free of singularities (except the well-known Friedmann singularity at $t=0$). The physical features of this solution are elucidated by using the Quasi-Maxwellian equations (a set of third order differential equations describing the dynamics of the gravitational field in terms of the Weyl tensor). The motion of test particles is also analyzed in order to confirm the maximal extension of the manifold under consideration. These results indicate that the anisotropic pressure could mimic dark matter effects on certain geodesic congruences keeping the cosmic flow unchanged.