From Modified Newtonian Dynamics to Superfluid Vacuum Theory.

Area of Science:

• Cosmology and astrophysics
• Theoretical physics

Background:

• Galactic rotation curves present a challenge to standard gravity and cosmology.
• Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) and dark matter hypotheses are leading explanations.
• Superfluid models offer an alternative framework for understanding galactic dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compare Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) and superfluid dark matter models for galactic rotation curves.
• To introduce a novel Superfluid Vacuum Theory (SVT) as a unifying alternative.
• To explore the implications of SVT on fundamental quantum theory.

Main Methods:

• Comparative review of existing MOND and superfluid dark matter models.
• Introduction of the Superfluid Vacuum Theory (SVT) utilizing a nonlinear logarithmic Schrödinger equation (LogSE).
• Analysis of how SVT reconciles MOND and superfluid concepts without invoking dark matter.

Main Results:

• MOND and superfluid models have distinct successes and limitations in explaining galactic rotation.
• SVT successfully integrates the core successes of MOND and superfluidity.
• SVT provides a framework that does not require the postulation of dark matter particles or processes.

Conclusions:

• The Superfluid Vacuum Theory (SVT) offers a promising dark matter-free explanation for galactic rotation curves.
• SVT unifies key aspects of MOND and superfluid dynamics.
• This alternative theory has significant implications for the foundations of quantum mechanics.