arXiv subjects

Miguel Cruz

Publications and source records attributed to Miguel Cruz.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Thermodynamic Criticality in FLRW Cosmology with Non-extensive Loop Quantum Gravity Entropy

We investigate thermodynamic criticality in a spatially flat Friedmann-Lema\^{\i}tre-Robertson-Walker universe with a non-extensive Loop Quantum Gravity inspired entropy on its apparent horizon. Using the full Kodama-Hayward temperature and the unified first law, we derive the modified Friedmann dynamics and construct the corresponding horizon equation of state. We see that a finite physical critical point only appears in the non-extensive branch $q>1$, while in the Bekenstein-Hawking limit $q\to1$, the critical point is continuously pushed to $v_c\to\infty$ and $T_c\to0$. Along the same spinodal curve, both the constant-pressure heat capacity and the isothermal compressibility become unbounded, and the extremum of this curve is located at the critical point. Below the critical temperature, the Gibbs free energy develops several thermodynamic branches, and the phase coexistence for different horizon states is verified by the equality of temperature, pressure, and Gibbs free energy. The critical exponents are $(\alpha_{cr},\beta_{cr},\gamma_{cr},\delta_{cr}) =(0,1/2,1,3)$, indicating that the system belongs to the standard mean-field universality class despite the non-algebraic form of the equation of state. The normalized Ruppeiner curvature diverges precisely on the spinodal curve and shows critical scaling $R_N\sim-|v-v_c|^{-4}$ on the critical isotherm, and $R_N\sim-|t|^{-2}$ on the critical isochore. Finally, the critical expansion scale is given by $H_c^2=2(\sqrt{5}-2)|\beta|$, which implies that the thermodynamic critical point occurs when the entropy deformation is of order unity. These results establish a self-consistent critical structure for the effective thermodynamic state space of the cosmological apparent horizon and retain the mean-field critical universality.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2026

Curvature-induced phantom behavior and cosmological bounces without violating the Dominant Energy Condition

We show that a spatially closed universe can exhibit effective phantom dynamics ($q<-1$) and reach a finite-time cosmological event without violating the Dominant Energy Condition (DEC). Whereas the standard Big Rip is driven by a phantom fluid that breaks the energy conditions, here non-null spatial curvature acts as an active geometric contributor: for matter that strictly obeys the DEC ($\omega\ge-1$), positive spatial curvature by itself drives the deceleration parameter to values below $-1$ and brings the expansion to a stop at a finite value of the scale factor, where the Hubble parameter vanishes while the energy density stays finite. Since the curvature also keeps the Hubble radius regular at this point, the event is naturally interpreted as a cosmological bounce rather than a disruptive singularity. We contrast this DEC-preserving mechanism with the genuine phantom case ($\omega<-1$), for which the same closed geometry produces an early bounce followed by a late Big Rip, and we comment on the observational status of the curvature contribution.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2026

The generalized second law as a thermodynamic selection criterion for dynamical dark energy

The growing number of generalized horizon entropy proposals has led to a wide variety of modified cosmological models, yet there is currently no general physical principle capable of discriminating among them. We show that the generalized second law (GSL) of thermodynamics provides such a criterion. Considering a general modified Friedmann framework described by an arbitrary function $f(H)$ of the Hubble parameter, and allowing the apparent horizon and the cosmic fluid to evolve out of thermal equilibrium, we derive model-independent constraints on the asymptotic scaling of the horizon entropy, $S_A\propto A^k$. We find that phantom evolution requires $k\ge(3\omega-1)/(2\omega)$, with $\omega$ the total fluid equation of state, whereas quintessence imposes the complementary upper bound. Additionally, in the exact thermal equilibrium limit, the dynamical coupling strictly enforces $k \le 2$, recovering the non-equilibrium quintessence bound. The two bounds converge to the unique value $k=2$ as the phantom divide is approached, indicating that a smooth crossing of the phantom divide is thermodynamically associated with a quadratic entropy-area scaling, where the effective theory degenerates into a logarithmic gravity framework. Applying this criterion to representative generalized entropy models shows that many commonly used proposals are constrained by the generalized second law, whereas multiparameter constructions are naturally compatible with the required asymptotic behavior. Finally, we demonstrate that the same thermodynamic selection principle extends to derivative-dependent cosmologies described by $f(H,\dot H)$, highlighting its robustness beyond entropy functionals that depend only on the horizon area.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2026

Cosmological Stealth fields and Non-Equilibrium thermodynamics

We investigate the connection between cosmological stealth scalar fields and non-equilibrium thermodynamics in a spatially flat Friedmann-Lema\^{i}tre-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) background. We consider a non-minimally coupled scalar field whose energy-momentum tensor vanishes identically, allowing the field to evolve on a dissipative cosmological background without producing gravitational backreaction. We show that the stealth condition leads to a generalized Riccati equation for the scalar-field kinematics, where the dissipative pressure acts as a thermodynamic driving term. In terms of the variable $y=\dot{\phi}/(H\phi)$, the system admits two thermodynamic branches: a stable attractor selected by entropy production and an unstable repeller. We also construct the corresponding phase-space structure in the $(y,\omega_{\rm eff})$ plane and identify a near-critical regime associated with $\zeta=1/4$. Finally, we reconstruct the stealth potential and present a bulk viscous realization in which irreversible entropy production drives the universe toward an asymptotic de Sitter state while the stealth field tracks the dissipative background. Our results suggest that stealth fields can be interpreted as dynamically non-trivial thermodynamic trackers of non-equilibrium cosmological evolution.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2026

Spatial curvature in Unimodular Gravity

We investigate the cosmological implications of unimodular gravity (UG) featuring energy diffusion and spatial curvature. While standard diffusion models often suffer from thermodynamic inconsistencies, we propose a phenomenologically viable power-law Ansatz for the diffusion function, $Q(z) = Q_0(1+z)^\beta$, which strictly satisfies the second law of thermodynamics by demanding positive entropy production ($\beta Q_0 > 0$). Using a joint statistical analysis with the Pantheon+ Type Ia Supernova compilation and Baryon Acoustic Oscillation (BAO) measurements, we tightly constrain the parameter space. We find a diffusion exponent of $\beta = 0.503_{-0.126}^{+0.118}$ and a slight preference for a closed spatial geometry with $\Omega_{k0} = -0.109_{-0.071}^{+0.076}$ at present time. Remarkably, the consideration of spatial curvature and diffusion naturally alleviates the Hubble tension, yielding $H_0 = 73.350_{-0.226}^{+0.221}$ km/s/Mpc while maintaining a consistent cosmic age of $t_0 \simeq 13.61$ Gyr. Furthermore, the constrained diffusion scales as a stable, quintessence-like effective dark energy ($\omega_{\text{eff}} \simeq -0.832$). Thus, unimodular diffusion provides a thermodynamically consistent phenomenological alternative that can alleviate the Hubble tension while preserving both the cosmic age and the sound-horizon scale, with a preference for a closed spatial geometry.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2026

Correspondence between a decaying dark matter sector scenario and scalar field model

We explore the theoretical viability of modeling a decaying dark matter sector through a unified scalar field approach. Using exact analytical solutions of the Friedmann constraints, we map the fluid phenomenology onto a scalar field potential. Our analysis reveals that physical viability, specifically the existence of a well-defined potential minimum; inevitably forces the dark energy equation of state into the phantom domain. To resolve the kinetic pathologies at late times, we propose reinterpreting the framework within a complex scenario, mapping the imaginary transition to the angular dynamics of a $U(1)$ phase. This mapping naturally yields an ultra-light mass scale of $m_\phi \sim 10^{-33} \ \text{eV}$, classifying the model as a unified dark fluid. Finally, we employ a dynamical approach to study the effects of non-minimal coupling, proving that the phantom-dominated epoch acts as a stable, late-time cosmic attractor in this kind of cosmological scenario.

astro-ph.CO↗

arXiv2026

Thermodynamic behavior of cosmological models with fractional entropy

We investigate the thermodynamic and phenomenological implications of a cosmological model governed by fractional entropy applied to the apparent horizon of a flat Friedmann-Lema\^{i}tre-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) universe. By utilizing the unified first law of thermodynamics alongside the Kodama-Hayward temperature, we derive a generalized set of Friedmann equations characterized by a fractional parameter $\alpha \in (1,2]$. The thermodynamic analysis reveals that the specific heats $C_V$ and $C_p$ share the same sign and depend solely on the deceleration parameter, demonstrating that the fractional model is thermodynamically stable during the late-time accelerated expansion and does not exhibit phase transitions. To constrain the background dynamics, we confront the truncated fractional model with a joint sample of late-time observational data, including Cosmic Chronometers, Pantheon+SH0ES supernovae, and the latest DESI DR2 Baryon Acoustic Oscillations. Exploring the physically motivated range $1<\alpha\le 2$, we find that the fit quality degrades monotonically as $\alpha$ decreases from the General Relativity limit. Rather than limiting the model's physical value, this demonstrates its theoretical robustness: the fractional framework acts as a continuous deformation parameter that preserves macroscopic thermodynamic stability. The data favors $\alpha$ close to 2 (yielding $H_0=69.50\pm 0.42$ km/s/Mpc and $\Omega_{m0}=0.292\pm 0.008$), revealing that while the late-time background expansion strongly constrains deviations from the standard area law, the fractional model smoothly and stably accommodates these constraints without exhibiting thermodynamic pathologies.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2026

Thermodynamic constraints and future singularities in Unimodular Gravity driven by phantom and non-phantom fluids

This work investigates future cosmological singularities in a flat FLRW universe filled with a single barotropic fluid, ($p = (\gamma - 1)\rho$), within the framework of unimodular gravity. In this setting, the non-conservation of the energy-momentum tensor is encoded through an energy diffusion function $Q$. While a constant diffusion term leads to an effective cosmological constant and preserves adiabatic evolution, a time-dependent $Q(t)$ induces non-adiabatic dynamics. We consider a power-law Ansatz for $Q$ as a function of the redshift and impose the condition of positive entropy production. This requirement leads to non-trivial constraints on the model parameters, with direct implications for the admissible singularity structure. In particular, within the thermodynamically allowed sector, we show that Big Rip singularities are excluded for non-phantom fluids when the cosmological constant is positive. For phantom fluids, the model reproduces the expected Big Rip behavior, as well as Big Crunch solutions for negative cosmological constant. More importantly, we show that diffusion can induce an effective phantom regime even when the fundamental fluid is non-phantom. In particular, for a negative cosmological constant, we present an explicit realization of a Big Rip singularity in unimodular gravity driven by diffusion, while consistently preserving a non-phantom equation of state and positive entropy production. These results reveal a novel mechanism for the emergence of future singularities, with no direct analogue in standard General Relativity.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2026

Beyond Comoving Volume: Horizon Flux and Matter Creation in Modified Cosmology from the Unified First Law of Thermodynamics

We explore the derivation of the Friedmann equations from a thermodynamic perspective, applying the unified first law of thermodynamics to the apparent horizon of a flat Friedmann-Lema\^itre-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) universe. We extend this framework to incorporate gravitationally induced particle creation, treating the region enclosed by the apparent horizon as an open thermodynamic system. A crucial aspect of our analysis is the recognition that the apparent horizon volume is not comoving; this requires consistent accounting of particle exchange across the moving boundary. We demonstrate that the evolution of the particle number, and explicitly the matter entropy, can be decomposed into two distinct physical contributions: genuine bulk particle production and a net flux induced by the dynamics of the horizon itself. Finally, we derive the Generalized Second Law (GSL) in this setting, showing transparently how the total entropy budget is balanced by horizon thermodynamics, bulk creation, and boundary fluxes.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2025

The holographic origin of future singularities and the role of spatial curvature in cosmic expansion

We investigate the fundamental cosmological implications of holographic dark energy using the Granda-Oliveros (GO) infrared cutoff, spatial curvature, and generalized entropies. We demonstrate that the GO cutoff establishes a geometric origin for phantom acceleration, inevitably leading to a big rip singularity without requiring exotic matter. Incorporating spatial curvature reveals that topology acts as a quantitative catalyst; positive curvature accelerates the singularity in closed universes, but cannot alter its fundamental behavior. Furthermore, we show that Kaniadakis generalized entropy modifications are structurally insufficient to prevent this finite-time divergence. To successfully soften the big rip and yield an asymptotic little rip, it is necessary (as first alternative) to integrate irreversible thermodynamical mechanisms, such as non-equilibrium particle creation. These macroscopic processes are sufficient to neutralize the geometric divergence of the GO cutoff, as we discuss in the work.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2025

Interacting Generalized Chaplygin-Jacobi gas: Thermodynamics approach

This work investigates a cosmological model featuring an interaction between dark energy and dark matter, where the dark energy component is described by the Generalized Chaplygin-Jacobi gas (GCJG). In this study, we establish a system in which the GCJG and a pressureless dark matter fluid exchange energy via a linear interaction term, $Q \propto \rho_x$, being $\rho_{x}$ the dark energy density. By solving the conservation equations, we derive analytical expressions for the evolution of the dark energy and dark matter densities. The thermodynamic properties of this interacting system are then thoroughly analyzed. The thermodynamic analysis reveals that both dark components maintain positive temperatures, ensuring stability. Notably, the dark energy component transitions to a phantom regime in the past, a feature of interest for recent cosmological observations, without violating thermodynamic principles. The total entropy production is shown to be in agreement with the second law of thermodynamics. Furthermore, an analysis of the specific heats suggests that while the dark matter sector remains thermodynamically stable, the dark energy sector undergoes a late-time phase transition, consistent with its entering into the phantom domain at effective level.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2025

Thermodynamics of Geodetic Brane Gravity

In this work, we explore the effect at cosmological level of the extra contribution arising from the Geodetic Brane Gravity model within a thermodynamical perspective. As already known, the universe seen as an extended object embedded within a higher dimensional space time, modifies the dynamical background equations, which in turn results in correction contributions to the entropy and temperature of the apparent horizon. Additionally, we investigate the possibility that the apparent horizon and the bulk remain in thermal equilibrium across various matter contents, demonstrating that such properties are highly sensitive to the equation-of-state parameter.

hep-th↗

arXiv2025

First-order phase transitions and cosmic evolution: thermodynamic approach to generalized holographic dark energy

Focusing on the description of cosmic evolution at late times, this study examines a generalized holographic dark energy (HDE) framework constructed via a polynomial expansion in the Hubble parameter, which includes contributions proportional to $H^{2}$, $H^{4}$, and $H^{6}$, introduced through a variable parameter within the standard holographic formula. The analysis is carried out in the context of a spatially flat Friedmann-Lema\^itre-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) Universe, consisting of non-interacting matter together with the HDE fluid. We obtain the full set of Friedmann equations to investigate cosmic evolution and then analyze the system to determine whether thermodynamic $P - v$ type phase transitions can occur.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2025

Cosmological evolution driven by polytropic fluids in an inhomogeneous spacetime

Addressing the late-time accelerated expansion of the universe, known as the "dark energy problem", remains a central challenge in cosmology. While the cosmological constant is the standard explanation, alternative models such as quintessence, phantom fluids, and Chaplygin gas have been proposed. This work investigates the generalized Chaplygin gas (GCG) model, which is characterized by a polytropic equation of state. We explore this model within the framework of an anisotropic fluid, by means of a metric that reduces to the standard form of the Friedmann-Lema\^itre-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) spacetime at cosmological scales. To assess the model's viability, we derive analytical expressions for the scale factor, the Hubble parameter, and the deceleration parameter. Finally, the model is tested against observational data to constrain its parameters and evaluate its consistency.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2025

Thermodynamics of an universe with Decaying Cold Dark Matter

In this work we focus on the thermodynamics consistency of a new set of solutions emerging from a cosmology in which dark matter is able to decay into relativistic particles within the dark sector. It is important to stress that the lifetime of dark matter is larger than the age of the universe in order to be consistent with observations. Given that the corresponding decay rate is small, this one can be used as a perturbative parameter and it is possible to construct analytic solutions from a perturbative analysis for the densities of the species and the scale factor. The decay of dark matter is an irreversible process since it occurs out of chemical equilibrium and therefore the entropy per comoving volume increases considerably, as a consequence the temperature does not scale as $a^{-1}$ in contrast to an adiabatic expansion. We take into account two scenarios: a) The case in which both species making up the fluid end up in thermal equilibrium and therefore their temperature is the same. b) A second instance in which the species do not reach thermal equilibrium and therefore they have different temperatures. We verify that the second law of thermodynamics is satisfied in any case.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2025

Revealing some cosmological aspects of Kaniadakis entropy

Adopting the modifications induced by the truncated version of the Kaniadakis entropy on the Friedmann equations, we explore some relevant aspects of this cosmological scenario at the background level. We analyze the constraint imposed on the parameter $K$ obtained from the accelerated cosmic expansion condition, and we also study the role of such a parameter as a cosmological constant.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2024

Exploring thermodynamics inconsistencies in unimodular gravity: a comparative study of two energy diffusion functions

In this work we study the thermodynamics formulation for unimodular gravity under the election of two different models for the energy diffusion function. Such function encodes the current for the non-conservation of the energy-momentum tensor and is usually termed as $Q(t)$. In analogy to the cosmological scenario where the cosmic expansion is influenced by $Q(t)$, the thermodynamics implications in this scheme are also determined by the choice of the function $Q(t)$, as we discuss in the work. Specifically, we consider the barotropic and the continuous spontaneous localization models as energy diffusion functions, commonly used in the literature as viable candidates to face the well-known $H_{0}$ tension. The consistency conditions demanded for the entropy of the system in terms of the cosmological parameters of the model: positive production ($dS/dt>0$) and convexity condition ($d^{2}S/dt^{2} <0$), are investigated. We show that these conditions strongly constraint the viability of both models. Additionally, we comment about our results and compare with those obtained in recent works where the restriction of the parameters for these two diffusion models was implemented with the use of cosmological data.

gr-qc↗

arXiv2024

Black hole in a generalized Chaplygin-Jacobi dark fluid: shadow and light deflection angle

We investigate a generalized Chaplygin-like gas with an anisotropic equation of state, characterizing a dark fluid within which a static spherically symmetric black hole is assumed. By solving the Einstein equations for this black hole spacetime, we explicitly derive the metric function. The spacetime is parametrized by two critical parameters, $\mathcal{B}$ and $\alpha$, which measure the deviation from the Schwarzschild black hole and the extent of the dark fluid's anisotropy, respectively. We explore the behavior of light rays in the vicinity of the black hole by calculating its shadow and comparing our results with the Event Horizon Telescope observations. This comparison constrains the parameters to $0 \leq \mathcal{B} < 0.03$ and $0 < \alpha < 0.1$. Additionally, we calculate the deflection angles to determine the extent to which light is bent by the black hole. These calculations are further utilized to formulate possible Einstein rings, estimating the angular radius of the rings to be approximately $37.6\,\mathrm{\mu as}$. Throughout this work, we present analytical solutions wherever feasible, and employ reliable approximations where necessary to provide comprehensive insights into the spacetime characteristics and their observable effects.

gr-qc↗