Emergent Universe by Tunneling in a Jordan-Brans-Dicke Theory

TL;DR

This paper proposes a novel emergent universe model within Jordan-Brans-Dicke theory, where a static universe transitions to expansion via quantum tunneling, offering an alternative to traditional cosmological scenarios.

Contribution

It introduces a stable static universe in Jordan-Brans-Dicke theory that transitions to inflation through quantum tunneling, combining emergent universe and open inflation concepts.

Findings

Stable static universe supported by scalar field in false vacuum.

Quantum tunneling triggers transition to inflationary expansion.

Model provides a consistent emergent universe scenario in scalar-tensor gravity.

Abstract

In this work we study an alternative scheme for an Emergent Universe scenario in the context of a Jordan-Brans-Dicke theory, where the universe is initially in a truly static state supported by a scalar field located in a false vacuum. The model presents a classically stable past eternal static state which is broken when, by quantum tunneling, the scalar field decays into a state of true vacuum and the universe begins to evolve following the extended open inflationary scheme.