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The study aims to enhance the understanding of neutron star structure by integrating stochastic vacuum fluctuations into the effective field theory.

March 28, 2026Open Access

Stochastic Vacuum Fluctuations and Neutron Star Inertia

Key Points

The study aims to enhance the understanding of neutron star structure by integrating stochastic vacuum fluctuations into the effective field theory.
Introduced a parameter to adjust the inertial factor in the Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff equations while keeping the nuclear equation of state static.
Derived a geometric origin for the parameter through spectral geometry on a five-dimensional torus with SU(3) symmetry.
Tested the model against four different equations of state to predict shifts in neutron star observables.
Predicted a radius shift of approximately -0.01 km for neutron stars with a mass of 1.4 solar masses.
Forecasted a tidal deformability decrease of around -6 for the same mass neutron stars.
Demonstrated consistency with multi-messenger constraints from sources like GW170817 and NICER.

Abstract

Stochastic Vacuum Fluctuations and Neutron Star Inertia: An Effective Field Theory Approach Summary This paper introduces a novel Effective Field Theory (EFT) framework that extends the standard model of neutron star structure. By introducing a single parameter, we "dress" the inertial factor (+ P) within the Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff (TOV) equations while keeping the nuclear Equation of State (EOS) fixed. Key Findings Theoretical Foundation: We propose a candidate geometric origin for the parameter: = G₄₅₅ = 356^{5/2} 0. 00306 This is derived via spectral geometry on a five-dimensional torus T⁵ with SU (3) symmetry. Observational Impact: Testing across four EOS (SLy, AP4, MPA1, H4), the model predicts subtle but systematic shifts in macroscopic observables: Radius: R₁. ₄ -0. 01 km Tidal Deformability: ₁. ₄ -6 Consistency: These shifts are currently below the instrumental uncertainty of GW170817 and NICER, making the model consistent with all current multi-messenger constraints. Methodology & Reproducibility The work is supported by a comprehensive Reviewer Roadmap and a suite of 11 numerical scripts (provided in the supplementary material) to ensure full transparency and reproducibility of the TOV integration and spectral-geometric proofs.

Stochastic Vacuum Fluctuations and Neutron Star Inertia

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