The symmetron is a dark energy and dark matter candidate that forms
topological defects in the late-time universe and holds promise to resolve some
of the cosmological tensions. We perform high resolution simulations of the
dynamical and non-linear (a)symmetron using the recently developed relativistic
N-body code asevolution. By extensively testing the temporal and spatial
convergence of domain decompositioning and domain wall stability, we find
criteria and physical intuition for the convergence. We apply the resolution
criteria to run five high resolution, $1280^3$ grids and 500 Mpc/h boxsize,
simulations of the (a)symmetron and consider the behaviour of the scalar field
and the domain walls in each scenario. We find the effect on the matter power
spectra, the halo mass function and observables computed over the past
lightcone of an observer such as the integrated Sachs-Wolfe and non-linear
Rees-Sciama effect (ISW-RS) and the lensing, compared to LCDM. We show local
oscillations of the fifth force strength and the formation of planar structures
in the density field. The dynamics of the field is visualised in animations
with high resolution in time. The simulation code is made publicly available.
Introduction
The symmetron is a theoretical concept that could potentially explain dark energy and dark matter in the universe. In this study, high resolution simulations were conducted using the asevolution code to analyze the behavior of the symmetron and its impact on the universe. The goal was to understand the convergence and stability of the simulations, as well as to investigate how the symmetron affects various cosmological factors.
Conclusions
1. Convergence Criteria and Stability
The study successfully determined convergence criteria and physical intuition for the simulations, ensuring reliable results. Temporal and spatial convergence were extensively tested, and the simulations met the established convergence criteria.
2. Behavior of the Symmetron
Five high resolution simulations were run, each with a grid size of 80^3$ and a box size of 500 Mpc/h. The behavior of the scalar field and domain walls in each scenario was observed. The simulations revealed local oscillations of the fifth force strength and the formation of planar structures in the density field.
3. Impact on Cosmological Factors
The effect of the symmetron on various cosmological factors was analyzed. The matter power spectra, halo mass function, and observables computed over the past lightcone of an observer, such as the integrated Sachs-Wolfe and non-linear Rees-Sciama effect (ISW-RS) and lensing, were considered. A comparison to LCDM (Lambda Cold Dark Matter) was made to understand the differences.
4. Visualization and Availability
Animations with high-resolution in time were created to visualize the dynamics of the symmetron field. Furthermore, the simulation code used in the study has been made publicly available for further research and testing.
Future Roadmap
The findings of this study open up several potential challenges and opportunities for future research.
1. Further Refining Convergence Criteria
While the study established convergence criteria, further refinement and validation of these criteria may be necessary. Robust convergence criteria will ensure more accurate and reliable simulations.
2. Exploring Additional Simulations
The current study focused on five high-resolution simulations. Conducting additional simulations with different parameters, grid sizes, and box sizes will provide a deeper understanding of the behavior and effects of the symmetron.
3. Studying the Impact on Specific Cosmological Observations
The impact of the symmetron on specific cosmological observations, such as galaxy clustering or cosmic microwave background radiation, should be explored in greater detail. Understanding these effects can help validate or challenge the symmetron as a candidate for explaining dark energy and dark matter.
4. Integration with Observational Data
Integrating the results of the simulations with observational data from telescopes and other experiments can provide valuable insights. Comparing simulation outputs to actual observations will offer a more comprehensive assessment of the symmetron’s validity.
5. Improving Visualization Techniques
The development of advanced visualization techniques will enhance the ability to interpret the dynamics of the symmetron field. Creating more sophisticated visualizations can provide clearer insights into the behavior and effects of the symmetron on the universe.
6. Utilizing Publicly Available Simulation Code
The availability of the simulation code used in this study presents an opportunity for other researchers to replicate and build upon the findings. Utilizing this publicly available code can lead to collaborative efforts and further advancements in understanding the symmetron.
7. Exploring Alternative Dark Energy and Dark Matter Candidates
While the symmetron is a promising candidate, exploring other theoretical concepts for dark energy and dark matter should continue in parallel. Comparative studies can help determine the suitability of the symmetron relative to other candidates.
Overall, this study provides a foundation for future research on the symmetron as a dark energy and dark matter candidate. By addressing convergence, stability, and the impact on cosmological factors, the study offers valuable insights and opportunities for further exploration.
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