Observational tests for a class of scalar-tensor gravity

TL;DR

This paper derives observational bounds on a class of scalar-tensor gravity theories using null results from fifth force searches, highlighting potential for future tests to verify these theories which also relate to dark energy explanations.

Contribution

It provides new bounds on the conformal factor in scalar-tensor theories based on null observations, and discusses future observational prospects for testing these theories.

Findings

Upper or lower bounds on the conformal factor derived

Future observations could verify the class of theories

Theories may explain transition from inflation to dark energy

Abstract

We study observational bounds in a class of scalar-tensor gravity theories recently proposed. Either an upper or lower bound on a conformal factor in these theories is derived from null observation in composition dependent fifth force search, microscope mission. The important case of a lower bound implies that future improved observations have chances of verifying this class of theories. Future prospect for a particular type of observation is mentioned. The considered class of scalar-tensor gravity was shown elsewhere to explain the conversion of inflationary early phase to late time quintessence type dark energy.