arXiv subjects

Carlos A. R. Herdeiro

Publications and source records attributed to Carlos A. R. Herdeiro.

At least 91 records · Page 5Linked to original sources

arXiv2019

Einstein and Eddington and the consequences of general relativity: Black holes and gravitational waves

For the celebrations of the 100 years of the observations undertaken by Eddington at the island of Principe and collaborators at Sobral during a total solar eclipse in May 29, 1919, which have confirmed Einstein's theory of general relativity through the deflection of the incoming light from distant stars due to the spacetime curvature caused by the Sun, we highlight the main aspects of the theory, its tests and applications, focusing on some of its outstanding consequences. These are black holes, the object par excellence of general relativity, and gravitational waves, the gravitational probe for the distant Universe. We also point out some open issues.

physics.hist-ph↗

arXiv2019

A class of solitons in Maxwell-scalar and Einstein-Maxwell-scalar models

Recently, no-go theorems for the existence of solitonic solutions in Einstein-Maxwell-scalar (EMS) models have been established in arXiv:1902.07721. Here we discuss how these theorems can be circumvented by a specific class of non-minimal coupling functions between a real, canonical scalar field and the electromagnetic field. When the non-minimal coupling function diverges in a specific way near the location of a point charge, it regularises all physical quantities yielding an everywhere regular, localised lump of energy. Such solutions are possible even in flat spacetime Maxwell-scalar models, wherein the model is fully integrable in the spherical sector, and exact solutions can be obtained, yielding an explicit mechanism to de-singularise the Coulomb field. Considering their gravitational backreaction, the corresponding (numerical) EMS solitons provide a simple example of self-gravitating, localised energy lumps.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2019

On the inexistence of self-gravitating solitons in generalised axion electrodynamics

Building upon the methods used recently, we establish the inexistence of self-gravitating solitonic solutions for both static and strictly stationary asymptotically flat spacetimes in generalised axion electrodynamics. This is an Einstein-Maxwell-axion model, where the axion field $θ$ is non-minimally coupled to the electromagnetic field. Considering the standard QCD axion coupling, we first present an argument for the absence of static axionic solitons, $i.e.$ localised energy axionic-electromagnetic configurations, yielding an everywhere regular, horizonless, asymptotically flat, static spacetime. Then, for generic couplings $f(θ)$ and $g(θ)$ (subject to mild assumptions) between the axion field and the electromagnetic field invariants, we show there are still no solitonic solutions, even when dropping the staticity assumption and merely requiring a strictly stationary spacetime, regardless of the spatial isometries.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2019

Spontaneous scalarisation of charged black holes: coupling dependence and dynamical features

Spontaneous scalarisation of electrically charged, asymptotically flat Reissner-Nordström black holes (BHs) has been recently demonstrated to occur in Einstein-Maxwell-Scalar (EMS) models. EMS BH scalarisation presents a technical simplification over the BH scalarisation that has been conjectured to occur in extended Scalar-Tensor Gauss-Bonnet (eSTGB) models. It is then natural to ask: 1) how universal are the conclusions extracted from the EMS model? And 2) how much do these conclusions depend on the choice of the non-minimal coupling function? Here we perform a comparative analysis of different forms for the coupling function including: exponential, hyperbolic, power-law and a rational function (fraction) couplings. In all of them we obtain and study the domain of existence of fundamental, spherically symmetric, scalarised BHs and compute, in particular, their entropy. The latter shows that scalarised EMS BHs are always entropically preferred over the RN BHs with the same total charge to mass ratio $q$. This contrasts with the case of eSTGB, where for the same power-law coupling the spherical, fundamental scalarised BHs are not entropically preferred over Schwarzschild. Also, while the scalarised solutions in the EMS model for the exponential, hyperbolic and power-law coupling are very similar, the rational function coupling leads to a transition in the domain of existence. Furthermore, fully non-linear dynamical evolutions of unstable RN BHs with different values of $q$ are presented. These show: 1) for sufficiently small $q$, scalarised solutions with (approximately) the same $q$ form dynamically; 2) for large $q$, spontaneous scalarisation visibly decreases $q$; thus evolutions are non-conservative; 3) despite the existence of non-spherical, static scalarised solutions, the evolution of unstable RN BHs under non-spherical perturbations leads to a spherical scalarised BH.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2019

Charged black holes with axionic-type couplings: classes of solutions and dynamical scalarisation

We consider an augmented Einstein-Maxwell-scalar model including an axionic-type coupling between the scalar and electromagnetic field. We study dyonic black hole solutions in this model. For the canonical axionic coupling emerging from high energy physics, all charged black holes have axion hair. We present their domain of existence and investigate some physical properties. For other axionic-type couplings, two classes of black hole solutions may co-exist in the model: scalar-free Reissner-Nordström black holes and scalarised black holes. We show that in some region of the parameter space, the scalar-free solutions are unstable. Then, there is non-uniqueness since new scalarised black hole solutions with the same global charges also exist, which are entropically preferred over the scalar-free solutions and, moreover, emerge dynamically from the instability of the former.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2019

Dynamical formation of Proca stars and quasi-stationary solitonic objects

We perform fully non-linear numerical simulations within the spherically symmetric Einstein-(complex)Proca system. Starting with Proca field distributions that obey the Hamiltonian, momentum and Gaussian constraints, we show that the self-gravity of the system induces the formation of compact objects, which, for appropriate initial conditions, asymptotically approach stationary soliton-like solutions known as Proca stars. The excess energy of the system is dissipated by the mechanism of \textit{gravitational cooling} in analogy to what occurs in the dynamical formation of scalar boson stars. We investigate the dependence of this process on the phase difference between the real and imaginary parts of the Proca field, as well as on their relative amplitudes. Within the timescales probed by our numerical simulations the process is qualitatively insensitive to either choice: the phase difference and the amplitude ratio are conserved during the evolution. Thus, whereas a truly stationary object is expected to be approached only in the particular case of equal amplitudes and opposite phases, quasi-stationary compact solitonic objects are, nevertheless, formed in the general case.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2019

On the inexistence of solitons in Einstein-Maxwell-scalar models

Three non-existence results are established for self-gravitating solitons in Einstein-Maxwell-scalar models, wherein the scalar field is, generically, non-minimally coupled to the Maxwell field via a scalar function $f(Φ)$. Firstly, a trivial Maxwell field is considered, which yields a consistent truncation of the full model. In this case, using a scaling (Derrick-type) argument, it is established that no stationary and axisymmetric self-gravitating scalar solitons exist, unless the scalar potential energy is somewhere negative in spacetime. This generalises previous results for the static and strictly stationary cases. Thus, rotation alone cannot support self-gravitating scalar solitons in this class of models. Secondly, constant sign couplings are considered. Generalising a previous argument by Heusler for electro-vacuum, it is established that no static self-gravitating electromagnetic-scalar solitons exist. Thus, a varying (but constant sign) electric permittivity alone cannot support static Einstein-Maxwell-scalar solitons. Finally, the second result is generalised for strictly stationary, but not necessarily static, spacetimes, using a Lichnerowicz-type argument, generalising previous results in models where the scalar and Maxwell fields are not directly coupled. The scope of validity of each of these results points out the possible paths to circumvent them, in order to obtain self-gravitating solitons in Einstein-Maxwell-scalar models.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2019

Spontaneously scalarised Kerr black holes

We construct asymptotically flat, spinning, regular on and outside an event horizon, scalarised black holes (SBHs) in extended scalar-tensor-Gauss-Bonnet models. They reduce to Kerr BHs when the scalar field vanishes. For an illustrative choice of non-minimal coupling, we scan the domain of existence. For each value of spin, SBHs exist in an interval between two critical masses, with the lowest one vanishing in the static limit. Non-uniqueness with Kerr BHs of equal global charges is observed; the SBHs are entropically favoured. This suggests SBHs form dynamically from the spontaneous scalarisation of Kerr BHs, which are prone to a scalar-triggered tachyonic instability, below the largest critical mass. Phenomenologically, the introduction of BH spin damps the maximal observable difference between comparable scalarised and vacuum BHs. In the static limit, (perturbatively stable) SBHs can store over 20% of the spacetime energy outside the event horizon; in comparison with Schwarzschild BHs, their geodesic frequency at the ISCO can differ by a factor of 2.5 and deviations in the shadow areal radius may top 40%. As the BH spin grows, low mass SBHs are excluded, and the maximal relative differences decrease, becoming of order $\sim$ few % for dimensionless spin $j\gtrsim 0.5$. This reveals a spin selection effect: non-GR effects are only significant for low spin. We discuss if and how the recently measured shadow size of the M87 supermassive BH, constrains the length scale of the Gauss-Bonnet coupling.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2019

Exotic compact object behavior in black hole analogues

Classical phenomenological aspects of acoustic perturbations on a draining bathtub geometry where a surface with reflectivity $\mathcal{R}$ is set at a small distance from the would-be acoustic horizon, which is excised, are addressed. Like most exotic compact objects featuring an ergoregion but not a horizon, this model is prone to instabilities when $|\mathcal{R}|^2\approx 1$. However, stability can be attained for sufficiently slow drains when $|\mathcal{R}|^2\lesssim70\%$. It is shown that the superradiant scattering of acoustic waves is more effective when their frequency approaches one of the system's quasi-normal mode frequencies.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2019

Kerr black holes with synchronised scalar hair and higher azimuthal harmonic index

Kerr black holes with synchronised scalar hair and azimuthal harmonic index $m>1$ are constructed and studied. The corresponding domain of existence has a broader frequency range than the fundamental $m=1$ family; moreover, larger ADM masses, $M$ and angular momenta $J$ are allowed. Amongst other salient features, non-uniqueness of solutions for fixed global quantities is observed: solutions with the same $M$ and $J$ co-exist, for consecutive values of $m$, and the ones with larger $m$ are always entropically favoured. Our analysis demonstrates, moreover, the qualitative universality of various features observed for $m=1$ solutions, such as the shape of the domain of existence, the typology of ergo-regions, and the horizon geometry, which is studied through its isometric embedding in Euclidean 3-space.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2019

Shadows and strong gravitational lensing: a brief review

For ultra compact objects (UCOs), Light Rings (LRs) and Fundamental Photon Orbits (FPOs) play a pivotal role in the theoretical analysis of strong gravitational lensing effects, and of BH shadows in particular. In this short review, specific models are considered to illustrate how FPOs can be useful in order to understand some non-trivial gravitational lensing effects. This paper aims at briefly overviewing the theoretical foundations of these effects, touching also some of the related phenomenology, both in General Relativity (GR) and alternative theories of gravity, hopefully providing some intuition and new insights for the underlying physics, which might be critical when testing the Kerr black hole hypothesis.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2019

Compact objects and the swampland

Recently, two simple criteria were proposed to assess if vacua emerging from an effective scalar field theory are part of the string "landscape" or "swampland". The former are the vacua that emerge from string compactifications; the latter are not obtained by any such compactification and hence may not survive in a UV completed theory of gravity. So far, these criteria have been applied to inflationary and dark energy models. Here we consider them in the context of solitonic compact objects made up of scalar fields: boson stars. Analysing several models (static, rotating, with and without self-interactions), we find that, in this context, the criteria are not independent. Furthermore, we find the universal behaviour that in the region wherein the boson stars are expected to be perturbatively stable, the compact objects may be part of the landscape. By contrast, in the region where they may be faithful black hole mimickers, in the sense they possess a light ring, the criteria fail (are obeyed) for static (rotating) ultracompact boson stars, which should thus be part of the swampland (landscape). We also consider hairy black holes interpolating between these boson stars and the Kerr solution and establish the part of the domain of existence where the swampland criteria are violated. In interpreting these results one should bear in mind, however, that the swampland criteria are not quantitatively strict.

hep-th↗

arXiv2019

Black hole scalarisation from the breakdown of scale-invariance

Electro-vacuum black holes are scale-invariant; their energy-momentum tensor is traceless. Quantum corrections of various sorts, however, can often produce a trace anomaly and a breakdown of scale-invariance. The (quantum-corrected) black hole solutions of the corresponding gravitational effective field theory (EFT) have a non-vanishing Ricci scalar. Then, the presence of a scalar field with the standard non-minimal coupling $ξϕ^2 R$ naturally triggers a spontaneous scalarisation of the corresponding black holes. This scalarisation phenomenon occurs for an (infinite) discrete set of $ξ$. We illustrate the occurrence of this phenomenon for two examples of static, spherically symmetric, asymptotically flat black hole solution of EFTs. In one example the trace anomaly comes from the matter sector -- a novel, closed form, generalisation of the Reissner-Nordström solution with an $F^4$ correction -- whereas in the other example it comes from the geometry sector -- a noncommutative geometry generalization of the Schwarzschild black hole. For comparison, we also consider the scalarisation of a black hole surrounded by (non-conformally invariant) classical matter (Einstein-Maxwell-dilaton black holes). We find that the scalarised solutions are, generically, entropically favoured.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2018

Asymptotically flat black holes with scalar hair: a review

We consider the status of black hole solutions with non-trivial scalar fields but no gauge fields, in four dimensional asymptotically flat space-times, reviewing both classical results and recent developments. We start by providing a simple illustration on the physical difference between black holes in electro-vacuum and scalar-vacuum. Next, we review no-scalar-hair theorems. In particular, we detail an influential theorem by Bekenstein and stress three key assumptions: 1) the type of scalar field equation; 2) the spacetime symmetry inheritance by the scalar field; 3) an energy condition. Then, we list regular (on and outside the horizon), asymptotically flat BH solutions with scalar hair, organizing them by the assumption which is violated in each case and distinguishing primary from secondary hair. We provide a table summary of the state of the art.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2018

Isolated black holes without $\mathbb{Z}_2$ isometry

A mechanism to construct asymptotically flat, isolated, stationary black hole (BH) spacetimes with no $\mathbb{Z}_2$ (No$\mathbb{Z}$) isometry is described. In particular, the horizon geometry of such No$\mathbb{Z}$ BHs does not have the usual north-south (reflection) symmetry. We discuss two explicit families of models wherein No$\mathbb{Z}$ BHs arise. In one of these families, we exhibit the intrinsic horizon geometry of an illustrative example by isometrically embedding it in Euclidean 3-space, resulting in an "egg-like" shaped horizon. This asymmetry leaves an imprint in the No$\mathbb{Z}$ BH phenomenology, for instance in its lensing of light; but it needs not be manifest in the BH shadow, which in some cases can be analytically shown to retain a $\mathbb{Z}_2$ symmetry. Light absorption and scattering due to an isotropic source surrounding a No$\mathbb{Z}$ BH endows it with a non-zero momentum, producing an asymmetry triggered BH rocket effect.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2018

Synchronized stationary clouds in a static fluid

The existence of stationary bound states for the hydrodynamic velocity field between two concentric cylinders is established. We argue that rotational motion, together with a trapping mechanism for the associated field, is sufficient to mitigate energy dissipation between the cylinders, thus allowing the existence of infinitely long lived modes, which we dub stationary clouds. We demonstrate the existence of such stationary clouds for sound and surface waves when the fluid is static and the internal cylinder rotates with constant angular velocity $Ω$. These setups provide a unique opportunity for the first experimental observation of synchronized stationary clouds. As in the case of bosonic fields around rotating black holes and black hole analogues, the existence of these clouds relies on a synchronization condition between $Ω$ and the angular phase velocity of the cloud.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2018

Spontaneous scalarisation of charged black holes

Extended scalar-tensor-Gauss-Bonnet (eSTGB) gravity has been recently argued to exhibit spontaneous scalarisation of vacuum black holes (BHs). A similar phenomenon can be expected in a larger class of models, which includes e.g. Einstein-Maxwell-scalar (EMS) models, where spontaneous scalarisation of electrovacuum BHs should occur. EMS models have no higher curvature corrections, a technical simplification over eSTGB models that allows us to investigate, fully non-linearly, BH scalarisation in two novel directions. Firstly, numerical simulations in spherical symmetry show, dynamically, that Reissner-Nordström (RN) BHs evolve into a perturbatively stable scalarised BH. Secondly, we compute the non-spherical sector of static scalarised BH solutions bifurcating from the RN BH trunk. Scalarised BHs form an infinite (countable) number of branches, and possess a large freedom in their multipole structure. Unlike the case of electrovacuum, the EMS model admits static, asymptotically flat, regular on and outside the horizon BHs without spherical symmetry and even without any spatial isometries, which are thermodynamically preferred over the electrovacuum state. We speculate on a possible dynamical role of these non-spherical scalarised BHs.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2018

Shadows of Exact Binary Black Holes

Black hole (BH) shadows in dynamical binary BHs (BBHs) have been produced via ray-tracing techniques on top of expensive fully non-linear numerical relativity simulations. We show that the main features of these shadows are captured by a simple quasi-static resolution of the photon orbits on top of the static double-Schwarzschild family of solutions. Whilst the latter contains a conical singularity between the line separating the two BHs, this produces no major observable effect on the shadows, by virtue of the underlying cylindrical symmetry of the problem. This symmetry is also present in the stationary BBH solution comprising two Kerr BHs separated by a massless strut. We produce images of the shadows of the exact stationary co-rotating (even) and counter-rotating (odd) stationary BBH configurations. This allow us to assess the impact on the binary shadows of the intrinsic spin of the BHs, contrasting it with the effect of the orbital angular momentum.

gr-qc↗