Understanding curvature-matter interaction in viable $f(R)$ dark energy models: A dynamical analysis approach

Abstract

We employ a linear stability analysis approach to explore the dynamics of matter and curvature-driven dark energy interactions within the framework of two types of viable $f(R)$ gravity models. The interaction is modeled via a source term in the continuity equations, $\mathcal{Q} = \alpha \tilde{\rho}_{\rm m} \Big{(}\frac{3H^3}{\kappa^2 \rho_{\rm curv}} + \frac{\kappa^2 }{3H}\rho_{\rm curv} \Big{)}$. Our results reveal significant modifications to the fixed points and their stability criteria compared to traditional $f(R)$ gravity analyses without matter-curvature coupling. We identify constraints on model and coupling parameters necessary for critical point stability, illustrating how the interaction influences cosmic dynamics within specific parameter ranges. The findings are consistent with observed cosmic evolution, supporting stable late-time acceleration. Moreover, we highlight the coupling parameter's potential role in addressing the cosmic coincidence problem.