Non-metric Generalizations of Relativistic Gravitational Theory and Observational Data Interpretation

TL;DR

This paper explores non-metric extensions of General Relativity, proposing formal frameworks and methods for comparing their predictions with observational data, including effects like light bending and time delay.

Contribution

It introduces a formal system for non-metric gravitational theories and develops tools for their experimental verification using local observer frames.

Findings

Derived an integral formula for geodesic deviation with non-metric effects

Provided a framework for comparing alternative gravity theories with observations

Suggested methods for analyzing light bending and time delay in non-metric theories

Abstract

We discuss theoretical formalisms concerning with experimental verification of General Relativity (GR). Non-metric generalizations of GR are considered and a system of postulates is formulated for metric-affine and Finsler gravitational theories. We consider local observer reference frames to be a proper tool for comparing predictions of alternative theories with each other and with the observational data. Integral formula for geodesic deviation due to the deformation of connection is obtained. This formula can be applied for calculations of such effects as the bending of light and time-delay in presence of non-metrical effects.