English

MOND--theoretical aspects

Astrophysics 2009-11-07 v2 General Relativity and Quantum Cosmology High Energy Physics - Phenomenology

Abstract

I discuss open theoretical questions pertaining to the modified dynamics (MOND)--a proposed alternative to dark matter, which posits a breakdown of Newtonian dynamics in the limit of small accelerations. In particular, I point the reasons for thinking that MOND is an effective theory--perhaps, despite appearance, not even in conflict with GR. I then contrast the two interpretations of MOND as modified gravity and as modified inertia. I describe two mechanical models that are described by potential theories similar to (non-relativistic) MOND: a potential-flow model, and a membrane model. These might shed some light on a possible origin of MOND. The possible involvement of vacuum effects is also speculated on.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.astro-ph/0207231,
  title  = {MOND--theoretical aspects},
  author = {Mordehai Milgrom},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:astro-ph/0207231},
  year   = {2009}
}

Comments

22 pages, New Astr. Review. in press. Based on a talk presented at the MOND workshop, Paris, October 2001