Constraints on scalar–tensor theory of gravity by solar system tests

Abstract

We study the motion of particles in the background of a scalar–tensor theory of gravity in which the scalar field is kinetically coupled to the Einstein tensor. We constrain the value of the derivative parameter z through solar system tests. By considering the perihelion precession we obtain the constraint z/mp>2.6×1012 m, the gravitational redshift zmp>2.7×1010 m, the deflection of light z/mp>1.6×1011 m, and the gravitational time delay z/mp>7.9×1012 m; thereby, our results show that it is possible to constrain the value of the z parameter in agreement with the observational tests that have been considered.