José Mimoso | Universidade de Lisboa (original) (raw)

Papers by José Mimoso

We discuss implications of the cosmological frame principle which states that cosmological effect... more We discuss implications of the cosmological frame principle which states that cosmological effects of modified gravity must be stable as solutions of each of the corresponding sets of dynamical equations holding in the two conformally-related frames. We show that there are such globally stable, 'frame-independent' solutions describing cosmic acceleration, suggesting that they may represent a physically relevant effect. This result highlights the importance of further investigation into the implications of the frame principle for cosmological properties that rely on the use of conformal frames.

Astrophysics and space science proceedings, 2011

Scalar-tensor (ST) gravity theories provide an appropriate theoretical framework for the variatio... more Scalar-tensor (ST) gravity theories provide an appropriate theoretical framework for the variation of Newton's fundamental constant, conveyed by the dynamics of a scalar-field non-minimally coupled to the space-time geometry. The experimental scrutiny of scalar-tensor gravity theories has led to a detailed analysis of their post-newtonian features, and is encapsulated into the so-called parametrised post-newtonian formalism (PPN). Of course this approach can only be applied whenever there is a newtonian limit, and the latter is related to the GR solution that is generalized by a given ST solution under consideration. This procedure thus assumes two hypothesis: On the one hand, that there should be a weak field limit of the GR solution; On the other hand that the latter corresponds to the limit case of given ST solution. In the present work we consider a ST solution with negative spatial curvature. It generalizes a general relativistic solution known as being of a degenerate class (A) for its unusual properties. In particular, the GR solution does not exhibit the usual weak field limit in the region where the gravitational field is static. The absence of a weak field limit for the hyperbolic GR solution means that such limit is also absent for comparison with the ST solution, and thus one cannot barely apply the PPN formalism. We therefore analyse the properties of the hyperbolic ST solution, and discuss the question o defining a generalised newtonian limit both for the GR solution and for the purpose of contrasting it with the ST solution. This contributes a basic framework to build up a parametrised pseudo-newtonian formalism adequate to test ST negatively curved space-times.

arXiv (Cornell University), Jun 16, 2023

We study a model of Symmetric Teleparallel gravity that is able to account for the current accele... more We study a model of Symmetric Teleparallel gravity that is able to account for the current accelerated expansion of the universe without the need for dark energy component. We investigate this model by making use of dynamical system analysis techniques to identify the regions of the parameter space with viable cosmologies and constrain it using type Ia supernova (SnIa), cosmic microwave background (CMB) data and make forecasts using standard siren (SS) events. We conclude that this model is disfavored with respect to ΛCDM and forthcoming standard siren events can be decisive in testing the viability of the model.

arXiv (Cornell University), Dec 20, 2006

The decay of the inflaton into radiation and particles during the slow-roll suggests that these m... more The decay of the inflaton into radiation and particles during the slow-roll suggests that these may interact with each other and that the latter may also decay into subproducts before inflation is completed. As a consequence, the fluid is no longer perfect and a nonnegligible bulk viscosity necessarily sets in. We write the corresponding equations as an autonomous system and study the asymptotic behavior, the conditions for the existence of scaling solutions, and show that the late time effect of fluid dissipation alleviates the depletion of matter and increases the duration of inflation.

Physical review, Oct 15, 1993

The gravitational wave equation for a spatially flat Friedmann-Robertson-Walker universe is deriv... more The gravitational wave equation for a spatially flat Friedmann-Robertson-Walker universe is derived in the context of scalar-tensor theories of gravity, which have the Brans-Dicke theory as a particular case. This equation is solved for several cosmological scenarios, including the expansions governed by the Nariai as well as the Gurevich-Finkelstein-Ruban solutions of Brans-Dicke theory and for a new set of exact solutions of other scalar-tensor theories. The amplification of gravitational waves is studied in comparison to what happens in the general relativistic case. It is shown how the coupling with the scalar field changes the scales defining very large and very small wave numbers, and consequently the value of the amplification coefticient. It is found that very small values for the coupling parameter could lead to amplification of subhorizon waves. The creation of the corresponding high-frequency gravitons is explained as a response to the rapid time variation of the gravitational "constant, " which can occur near the singularity in some models. It is also shown that there could be amplification of waves even in a radiation-dominated universe in some cases, because the wave equation is not conformally invariant, except for the case of Nariai's solution in the Brans-Dicke theory.

The Sixteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting, Jan 24, 2023

In this work, we explore wormhole geometries in a recently proposed modified gravity theory arisi... more In this work, we explore wormhole geometries in a recently proposed modified gravity theory arising from a non-conservative gravitational theory, tentatively denoted action-dependent Lagrangian theories. The generalized gravitational field equation essentially depends on a background fourvector λ µ , that plays the role of a coupling parameter associated with the dependence of the gravitational Lagrangian upon the action, and may generically depend on the spacetime coordinates. Considering wormhole configurations, by using "Buchdahl coordinates", we find that the four-vector is given by λµ = (0, 0, λ θ , 0), and that the spacetime geometry is severely restricted by the condition gttguu = −1, where u is the radial coordinate. We find a plethora of specific asymptotically flat, symmetric and asymmetric, solutions with power law choices for the function λ, by generalizing the Ellis-Bronnikov solutions and the recently proposed black bounce geometries, amongst others. We show that these compact objects possess a far richer geometrical structure than their general relativistic counterparts.

The Sixteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting, Jan 24, 2023

Journal of physics, May 1, 2010

We investigate a static solution with an hyperbolic nature, characterised by a pseudo-spherical f... more We investigate a static solution with an hyperbolic nature, characterised by a pseudo-spherical foliation of space. This space-time metric can be perceived as an anti-Schwarzschild solution, and exhibits repulsive features. It belongs to the class of static vacuum solutions termed "a degenerate static solution of class A" (see [1]). In the present work we review its fundamental features, discuss the existence of generalised wormholes, and derive its extension to scalar-tensor gravity theories in general.

arXiv (Cornell University), Aug 12, 2015

An interesting cosmological history was proposed by Prigogine et al. who considered the Universe ... more An interesting cosmological history was proposed by Prigogine et al. who considered the Universe as a thermodynamically open system. This scenario is characterized by a process of matter creation, which corresponds to an irreversible energy flow from the gravitational field to the pressureless matter fluid. Here, we show that the gravitationally induced particle production may arise from a nonminimal curvature-matter coupling. By considering the equivalent scalar-tensor theory, the cosmological implications of the model are discussed. As all known natural systems tend to a state of thermodynamic equilibrium, and assuming the universe is not different in this respect, we also discuss the conditions to attain the equilibrium state.

Living Reviews in Relativity

The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) has two scientific objectives of cosmological focus... more The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) has two scientific objectives of cosmological focus: to probe the expansion rate of the universe, and to understand stochastic gravitational-wave backgrounds and their implications for early universe and particle physics, from the MeV to the Planck scale. However, the range of potential cosmological applications of gravitational-wave observations extends well beyond these two objectives. This publication presents a summary of the state of the art in LISA cosmology, theory and methods, and identifies new opportunities to use gravitational-wave observations by LISA to probe the universe.

arXiv (Cornell University), Apr 25, 2023

We discuss implications of the cosmological frame principle which states that cosmological effect... more We discuss implications of the cosmological frame principle which states that cosmological effects of modified gravity must be stable as solutions of each of the corresponding sets of dynamical equations holding in the two conformally-related frames. We show that there are such globally stable, 'frame-independent' solutions

arXiv (Cornell University), Oct 25, 2022

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY

Astronomy & Astrophysics

Context. The Copernican principle, the notion that we are not at a special location in the Univer... more Context. The Copernican principle, the notion that we are not at a special location in the Universe, is one of the cornerstones of modern cosmology. Its violation would invalidate the Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker metric, causing a major change in our understanding of the Universe. Thus, it is of fundamental importance to perform observational tests of this principle. Aims. We determine the precision with which future surveys will be able to test the Copernican principle and their ability to detect any possible violations. Methods. We forecast constraints on the inhomogeneous Lemaître-Tolman-Bondi (LTB) model with a cosmological constant Λ, basically a cosmological constant Λ and cold dark matter (CDM) model but endowed with a spherical inhomogeneity. We consider combinations of currently available data and simulated Euclid data, together with external data products, based on both ΛCDM and ΛLTB fiducial models. These constraints are compared to the expectations from the Copern...

Living Reviews in Relativity

The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) has the potential to reveal wonders about the funda... more The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) has the potential to reveal wonders about the fundamental theory of nature at play in the extreme gravity regime, where the gravitational interaction is both strong and dynamical. In this white paper, the Fundamental Physics Working Group of the LISA Consortium summarizes the current topics in fundamental physics where LISA observations of gravitational waves can be expected to provide key input. We provide the briefest of reviews to then delineate avenues for future research directions and to discuss connections between this working group, other working groups and the consortium work package teams. These connections must be developed for LISA to live up to its science potential in these areas.

Astronomy & Astrophysics

Context. The standard cosmological model is based on the fundamental assumptions of a spatially h... more Context. The standard cosmological model is based on the fundamental assumptions of a spatially homogeneous and isotropic universe on large scales. An observational detection of a violation of these assumptions at any redshift would immediately indicate the presence of new physics. Aims. We quantify the ability of the Euclid mission, together with contemporary surveys, to improve the current sensitivity of null tests of the canonical cosmological constant Λ and the cold dark matter (ΛCDM) model in the redshift range 0 < z < 1.8. Methods. We considered both currently available data and simulated Euclid and external data products based on a ΛCDM fiducial model, an evolving dark energy model assuming the Chevallier-Polarski-Linder parameterization or an inhomogeneous Lemaître-Tolman-Bondi model with a cosmological constant Λ, and carried out two separate but complementary analyses: a machine learning reconstruction of the null tests based on genetic algorithms, and a theory-agnos...

arXiv (Cornell University), May 20, 2021

We study the model of a massive inflaton field φ coupled to another scalar filed χ with interacti... more We study the model of a massive inflaton field φ coupled to another scalar filed χ with interaction term g 2 φ 2 χ 2 for the first stage of preheating. We obtain the the behavior of the phase in terms of the iteration of a simple family of circle maps. When expansion of the universe is taken into account the qualitative behavior of the phase and growth number evolution is reminiscent of the behavior found in the case without expansion. 1

Xii Jornadas Luso Espanholas De Matematica Universidade Do Minho 4 a 8 Maio 1987 Vol 3 1987 Pags 537 543, 1987

We discuss implications of the cosmological frame principle which states that cosmological effect... more We discuss implications of the cosmological frame principle which states that cosmological effects of modified gravity must be stable as solutions of each of the corresponding sets of dynamical equations holding in the two conformally-related frames. We show that there are such globally stable, 'frame-independent' solutions describing cosmic acceleration, suggesting that they may represent a physically relevant effect. This result highlights the importance of further investigation into the implications of the frame principle for cosmological properties that rely on the use of conformal frames.

Astrophysics and space science proceedings, 2011

Scalar-tensor (ST) gravity theories provide an appropriate theoretical framework for the variatio... more Scalar-tensor (ST) gravity theories provide an appropriate theoretical framework for the variation of Newton's fundamental constant, conveyed by the dynamics of a scalar-field non-minimally coupled to the space-time geometry. The experimental scrutiny of scalar-tensor gravity theories has led to a detailed analysis of their post-newtonian features, and is encapsulated into the so-called parametrised post-newtonian formalism (PPN). Of course this approach can only be applied whenever there is a newtonian limit, and the latter is related to the GR solution that is generalized by a given ST solution under consideration. This procedure thus assumes two hypothesis: On the one hand, that there should be a weak field limit of the GR solution; On the other hand that the latter corresponds to the limit case of given ST solution. In the present work we consider a ST solution with negative spatial curvature. It generalizes a general relativistic solution known as being of a degenerate class (A) for its unusual properties. In particular, the GR solution does not exhibit the usual weak field limit in the region where the gravitational field is static. The absence of a weak field limit for the hyperbolic GR solution means that such limit is also absent for comparison with the ST solution, and thus one cannot barely apply the PPN formalism. We therefore analyse the properties of the hyperbolic ST solution, and discuss the question o defining a generalised newtonian limit both for the GR solution and for the purpose of contrasting it with the ST solution. This contributes a basic framework to build up a parametrised pseudo-newtonian formalism adequate to test ST negatively curved space-times.

arXiv (Cornell University), Jun 16, 2023

We study a model of Symmetric Teleparallel gravity that is able to account for the current accele... more We study a model of Symmetric Teleparallel gravity that is able to account for the current accelerated expansion of the universe without the need for dark energy component. We investigate this model by making use of dynamical system analysis techniques to identify the regions of the parameter space with viable cosmologies and constrain it using type Ia supernova (SnIa), cosmic microwave background (CMB) data and make forecasts using standard siren (SS) events. We conclude that this model is disfavored with respect to ΛCDM and forthcoming standard siren events can be decisive in testing the viability of the model.

arXiv (Cornell University), Dec 20, 2006

The decay of the inflaton into radiation and particles during the slow-roll suggests that these m... more The decay of the inflaton into radiation and particles during the slow-roll suggests that these may interact with each other and that the latter may also decay into subproducts before inflation is completed. As a consequence, the fluid is no longer perfect and a nonnegligible bulk viscosity necessarily sets in. We write the corresponding equations as an autonomous system and study the asymptotic behavior, the conditions for the existence of scaling solutions, and show that the late time effect of fluid dissipation alleviates the depletion of matter and increases the duration of inflation.

Physical review, Oct 15, 1993

The gravitational wave equation for a spatially flat Friedmann-Robertson-Walker universe is deriv... more The gravitational wave equation for a spatially flat Friedmann-Robertson-Walker universe is derived in the context of scalar-tensor theories of gravity, which have the Brans-Dicke theory as a particular case. This equation is solved for several cosmological scenarios, including the expansions governed by the Nariai as well as the Gurevich-Finkelstein-Ruban solutions of Brans-Dicke theory and for a new set of exact solutions of other scalar-tensor theories. The amplification of gravitational waves is studied in comparison to what happens in the general relativistic case. It is shown how the coupling with the scalar field changes the scales defining very large and very small wave numbers, and consequently the value of the amplification coefticient. It is found that very small values for the coupling parameter could lead to amplification of subhorizon waves. The creation of the corresponding high-frequency gravitons is explained as a response to the rapid time variation of the gravitational "constant, " which can occur near the singularity in some models. It is also shown that there could be amplification of waves even in a radiation-dominated universe in some cases, because the wave equation is not conformally invariant, except for the case of Nariai's solution in the Brans-Dicke theory.

The Sixteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting, Jan 24, 2023

In this work, we explore wormhole geometries in a recently proposed modified gravity theory arisi... more In this work, we explore wormhole geometries in a recently proposed modified gravity theory arising from a non-conservative gravitational theory, tentatively denoted action-dependent Lagrangian theories. The generalized gravitational field equation essentially depends on a background fourvector λ µ , that plays the role of a coupling parameter associated with the dependence of the gravitational Lagrangian upon the action, and may generically depend on the spacetime coordinates. Considering wormhole configurations, by using "Buchdahl coordinates", we find that the four-vector is given by λµ = (0, 0, λ θ , 0), and that the spacetime geometry is severely restricted by the condition gttguu = −1, where u is the radial coordinate. We find a plethora of specific asymptotically flat, symmetric and asymmetric, solutions with power law choices for the function λ, by generalizing the Ellis-Bronnikov solutions and the recently proposed black bounce geometries, amongst others. We show that these compact objects possess a far richer geometrical structure than their general relativistic counterparts.

The Sixteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting, Jan 24, 2023

Journal of physics, May 1, 2010

We investigate a static solution with an hyperbolic nature, characterised by a pseudo-spherical f... more We investigate a static solution with an hyperbolic nature, characterised by a pseudo-spherical foliation of space. This space-time metric can be perceived as an anti-Schwarzschild solution, and exhibits repulsive features. It belongs to the class of static vacuum solutions termed "a degenerate static solution of class A" (see [1]). In the present work we review its fundamental features, discuss the existence of generalised wormholes, and derive its extension to scalar-tensor gravity theories in general.

arXiv (Cornell University), Aug 12, 2015

An interesting cosmological history was proposed by Prigogine et al. who considered the Universe ... more An interesting cosmological history was proposed by Prigogine et al. who considered the Universe as a thermodynamically open system. This scenario is characterized by a process of matter creation, which corresponds to an irreversible energy flow from the gravitational field to the pressureless matter fluid. Here, we show that the gravitationally induced particle production may arise from a nonminimal curvature-matter coupling. By considering the equivalent scalar-tensor theory, the cosmological implications of the model are discussed. As all known natural systems tend to a state of thermodynamic equilibrium, and assuming the universe is not different in this respect, we also discuss the conditions to attain the equilibrium state.

Living Reviews in Relativity

The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) has two scientific objectives of cosmological focus... more The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) has two scientific objectives of cosmological focus: to probe the expansion rate of the universe, and to understand stochastic gravitational-wave backgrounds and their implications for early universe and particle physics, from the MeV to the Planck scale. However, the range of potential cosmological applications of gravitational-wave observations extends well beyond these two objectives. This publication presents a summary of the state of the art in LISA cosmology, theory and methods, and identifies new opportunities to use gravitational-wave observations by LISA to probe the universe.

arXiv (Cornell University), Apr 25, 2023

We discuss implications of the cosmological frame principle which states that cosmological effect... more We discuss implications of the cosmological frame principle which states that cosmological effects of modified gravity must be stable as solutions of each of the corresponding sets of dynamical equations holding in the two conformally-related frames. We show that there are such globally stable, 'frame-independent' solutions

arXiv (Cornell University), Oct 25, 2022

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY

Astronomy & Astrophysics

Context. The Copernican principle, the notion that we are not at a special location in the Univer... more Context. The Copernican principle, the notion that we are not at a special location in the Universe, is one of the cornerstones of modern cosmology. Its violation would invalidate the Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker metric, causing a major change in our understanding of the Universe. Thus, it is of fundamental importance to perform observational tests of this principle. Aims. We determine the precision with which future surveys will be able to test the Copernican principle and their ability to detect any possible violations. Methods. We forecast constraints on the inhomogeneous Lemaître-Tolman-Bondi (LTB) model with a cosmological constant Λ, basically a cosmological constant Λ and cold dark matter (CDM) model but endowed with a spherical inhomogeneity. We consider combinations of currently available data and simulated Euclid data, together with external data products, based on both ΛCDM and ΛLTB fiducial models. These constraints are compared to the expectations from the Copern...

Living Reviews in Relativity

The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) has the potential to reveal wonders about the funda... more The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) has the potential to reveal wonders about the fundamental theory of nature at play in the extreme gravity regime, where the gravitational interaction is both strong and dynamical. In this white paper, the Fundamental Physics Working Group of the LISA Consortium summarizes the current topics in fundamental physics where LISA observations of gravitational waves can be expected to provide key input. We provide the briefest of reviews to then delineate avenues for future research directions and to discuss connections between this working group, other working groups and the consortium work package teams. These connections must be developed for LISA to live up to its science potential in these areas.

Astronomy & Astrophysics

Context. The standard cosmological model is based on the fundamental assumptions of a spatially h... more Context. The standard cosmological model is based on the fundamental assumptions of a spatially homogeneous and isotropic universe on large scales. An observational detection of a violation of these assumptions at any redshift would immediately indicate the presence of new physics. Aims. We quantify the ability of the Euclid mission, together with contemporary surveys, to improve the current sensitivity of null tests of the canonical cosmological constant Λ and the cold dark matter (ΛCDM) model in the redshift range 0 < z < 1.8. Methods. We considered both currently available data and simulated Euclid and external data products based on a ΛCDM fiducial model, an evolving dark energy model assuming the Chevallier-Polarski-Linder parameterization or an inhomogeneous Lemaître-Tolman-Bondi model with a cosmological constant Λ, and carried out two separate but complementary analyses: a machine learning reconstruction of the null tests based on genetic algorithms, and a theory-agnos...

arXiv (Cornell University), May 20, 2021

We study the model of a massive inflaton field φ coupled to another scalar filed χ with interacti... more We study the model of a massive inflaton field φ coupled to another scalar filed χ with interaction term g 2 φ 2 χ 2 for the first stage of preheating. We obtain the the behavior of the phase in terms of the iteration of a simple family of circle maps. When expansion of the universe is taken into account the qualitative behavior of the phase and growth number evolution is reminiscent of the behavior found in the case without expansion. 1

Xii Jornadas Luso Espanholas De Matematica Universidade Do Minho 4 a 8 Maio 1987 Vol 3 1987 Pags 537 543, 1987