Conformal fixed point, cosmological constant, and quintessence

Area of Science:

• Cosmology
• Fundamental Physics
• Quantum Field Theory

Background:

• The cosmological constant problem, a significant discrepancy between theoretical predictions and observed vacuum energy density, remains a major challenge in physics.
• Current cosmological models require a small, non-zero vacuum energy density to explain the accelerated expansion of the universe.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a theoretical solution to the cosmological constant problem.
• To connect this solution to a fundamental theory exhibiting a conformal fixed point.
• To investigate the cosmological implications of such a theory, specifically regarding cosmic acceleration.

Main Methods:

• Postulating the existence of a conformal fixed point in a fundamental theory.
• Developing a cosmological model derived from this fundamental theory.
• Analyzing the behavior of coupling constants within this model.

Main Results:

• The proposed model naturally incorporates a small vacuum energy density, addressing the cosmological constant problem.
• The resulting cosmology exhibits characteristics of quintessence.
• A crossover in the flow of coupling constants is identified as the mechanism driving cosmic acceleration.

Conclusions:

• The existence of a conformal fixed point in fundamental physics offers a potential resolution to the cosmological constant problem.
• Cosmic acceleration can be explained as a dynamic phenomenon linked to the evolution of coupling constants, consistent with quintessence.
• This framework provides a new perspective on the interplay between fundamental theory and observable cosmology.