Constraining Brans-Dicke Parameter Using Gravitational Radiation

Abstract

This article presents a theoretical limit on the Brans-Dicke (BD) parameter using a neutron star (NS) revolving around a galactic central engine.The assumption that the orbital radius is large enough allows to ignore strong curvature due to the central supermassive black hole (SMBH) and treat the problem with Newtonian dynamics. First, gravitational radiation polarizations are calculated in the BD theory. The scalar polarization, dominated by the dipole radiation, is then used to put a constraint on the BD parameter.The calculations are relatively simple and this makes it accessible to sophomore students.