Superconformal Generalization of the Chaotic Inflation Model λϕ^4/4 - ξ/ 2 ϕ^2 R

Abstract

A model of chaotic inflation based on the theory of a scalar field with potential λϕ^4 perfectly matches the observational data if one adds to it a tiny non-minimal coupling to gravity -ξ/2 ϕ^2 R with ξ> 0.002. We describe embedding of this model into the superconformal theory with spontaneous breaking of superconformal symmetry, and into supergravity. A model with small ξis technically natural: setting the small parameter ξto zero leads to a point of enhanced symmetry in the underlying superconformal theory.

21 pages, 1 figure, references added