Energy Conditions in a Generalized Second-Order Scalar-Tensor Gravity

Abstract: The study of energy conditions has many significant applications in general relativistic and cosmological contexts. This paper explores the energy conditions in the framework of the most general scalar-tensor theory with field equations involving second-order derivatives. For this purpose, we use flat FRW universe model with perfect fluid matter contents. By taking power law ansatz for scalar field, we discuss the strong, weak, null and dominant energy conditions in terms of deceleration, jerk and snap parameters. Some particular cases of this theory like k-essence model and modified gravity theories etc. are analyzed with the help of the derived energy conditions and the possible constraints on the free parameters of the presented models are determined.