Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet dark matter halo: Negative masses, rotation curves and the origin of dark matter effects

Abstract This work presents a novel approach to address the longstanding challenge posed by the rotation curves of galaxies and the associated missing mass problem. Utilizing the four-dimensional modified gravity framework of Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet (EGB), we develop a new model that integrates the concept of dark matter featuring negative mass due to the Gauss-Bonnet term. Our methodology involves using the action of EGB with boundary terms to derive the Israel junction condition, allowing the formulation of a model featuring a spherical dark halo. The mass expression of this dark halo exhibits a remarkable proportionality to the radius r at large distances, forming the basis for subsequent analyses. The model’s implications extend to the dynamics of the early Universe, where we introduce a dynamic scalar field classified as Chameleon. Posting this scalar field as the origin of dark matter effects, we establish a crucial link between the coupling constant α and the scalar field through Z 2 symmetry breaking via the effective potential. This connection enables a subtle description of velocity, reminiscent of Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND), providing insights into the gravitational interplay and dark matter dynamics. A pivotal aspect of our study involves a particular comparison of the model’s predictions with observational data sourced from SPARC datasets. The alignment of our theoretical outcomes with empirical evidence underscores the model’s efficiency and its potential contribution to our understanding of galactic rotation dynamics.