High frequency oscillations of Newton's constant induced by inflation

Abstract

We examine the possibility that an epoch of inflationary expansion induces high-frequency oscillations of Newton's constant, $G$. The effect occurs because inflation can shift the expectation value of a non-minimally coupled, Brans-Dicke-like field away from the minimum of its effective potential. At some time after inflation ends, the field begins to oscillate, resulting in periodic variations in $G$. We find conditions for which the oscillation energy would be sufficient to close the universe, consistent with all known constraints from cosmology and local tests of general relativity.

30 pages, Penn Preprint UPR-0628T, Wash. U. Preprint WUGRAV 94-10 Four figures available by ftp (read comment at head of file)