Dipolar tidal effects in scalar-tensor theories

Abstract

The inclusion of finite-size effects in the gravitational waveform templates allows one not only to constrain the internal structure of compact objects, but to test deviations from general relativity. Here, we address the problem of tidal effects in massless scalar-tensor theories. We introduce the scalar-type tidal Love numbers that relate the time-varying scalar dipole moment to the induced scalar tidal field. We compute the leading-order scalar tidal contribution in the conservative dynamics and for the first time in the wave generation for quasicircular orbits. Importantly, we show that, in a system dominated by dipolar emission, such tidal effects may be detectable by third generation detectors such as the Einstein Telescope.