Scalar field collapse in Gauss-Bonnet gravity

TL;DR

This paper investigates scalar field collapse within four-dimensional Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet gravity, demonstrating that collapse can occur under certain conditions and results in a hidden curvature singularity.

Contribution

It introduces a non-minimal coupling of a scalar field with the Gauss-Bonnet term in 4D gravity and analyzes the conditions for scalar collapse and horizon formation.

Findings

Scalar field collapse is possible in Gauss-Bonnet gravity.

Collapse leads to a curvature singularity hidden by an apparent horizon.

The results depend on specific parametric conditions.

Abstract

We consider a "Scalar-Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet" theory in four dimension, where the scalar field couples non minimally with the Gauss-Bonnet (GB) term. This coupling with the scalar field ensures the non topological character of the GB term. In this scenario, we examine the possibility for collapsing of the scalar field. Our result reveals that such a collapse is possible in the presence of Gauss-Bonnet gravity for suitable choices of parametric regions. The singularity formed as a result of the collapse is found to be a curvature singularity which is hidden from exterior by an apparent horizon.