Testing an exact f(R)-gravity model at Galactic and local scales

Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, Università Federico II di Napoli and INFN - Sez. di Napoli, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, via Cinthia, Ed. 6, 80126 Napoli, Italy e-mail: [capozziello;ester;rubano;scud]@na.infn.it

Received: 6 March 2009
Accepted: 24 June 2009

Abstract

Context. The weak field limit for a pointlike source of a -gravity model is studied.

Aims. We aim to show the viability of such a model as a valid alternative to GR + dark matter at Galactic and local scales.

Methods. Without considering dark matter, within the weak field approximation, we find general exact solutions for gravity with standard matter, and apply them to some astrophysical scales, recovering the consistency of the same -gravity model with cosmological results.

Results. In particular, we show that it is possible to obtain flat rotation curves for galaxies, and consistency with Solar System tests, as in the so-called “Chameleon approach”. In fact, the peripheral velocity is shown to be expressed as , so that the Tully-Fisher relation is recovered.

Conclusions. The results point out the possibility of achieving alternative theories of gravity in which exotic ingredients like dark matter and dark energy are not necessary, while their coarse-grained astrophysical and cosmological effects can be related to a geometric origin.