CTP Seminar
This seminar explores the critical role of the DEF coupling function within Quadratic Scalar-Tensor Gravity (QSTG), focusing on the mechanism of Spontaneous Scalarization—the dynamical activation of a scalar field by spacetime curvature. The core of this research is demonstrating how this fundamental instability can provide unified explanations for phenomena across vast physical scales. Drawing from my doctoral work, the talk details a four-pronged investigation: (1) its utility in regulating the slow-roll phase of cosmic inflation; (2) its application in generating a natural, late-time dynamical dark energy scenario; and (3 & 4) its connection to astrophysical transients, proposing novel mechanisms involving parametric oscillations and a Higgs-like stabilization to explain observed supernova energies. The work argues that scalar field instability is a universal, essential ingredient for a complete model of modified gravity. Â