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Using a novel and self-consistent approach that avoids the scalar-tensor identification in the Einstein frame, we reanalyze the viability of f(R) gravity within the context of solar-system tests. In order to do so, we depart from a simple but fully relativistic system of differential equations that describe a compact object in a static and spherically symmetric spacetime, and then we make suitable linearizations that apply to nonrelativistic objects such as the Sun. We then show clearly under which conditions the emerging chameleonlike mechanism can lead to a post-Newtonian parameter {\gamma} compatible with the observational bounds. To illustrate this method, we use several specific f(R) models proposed to explain the current acceleration of the Universe, and we show which of them are able to satisfy those bounds., Comment: accepted in Phys. Rev. D

We perform a test of John Moffat's Modified Gravity theory (MOG) within the Milky Way, adopting the well known "Rotation Curve" method. We use the dynamics of observed tracers within the disk to determine the gravitational potential as a function of galactocentric distance, and compare that with the potential that is expected to be generated by the visible component only (stars and gas) under different "flavors" of the MOG theory, making use of a state-of-the-art setup for both the observed tracers and baryonic morphology. Our analysis shows that in both the original and the modified version (considering a self-consistent evaluation of the Milky Way mass), the theory fails to reproduce the observed rotation curve. We conclude that in none of its present formulation, the MOG theory is able to explain the observed Rotation Curve of the Milky Way., 7 pages, 2 figures. Accepted for publication in PRD

Most theories that predict time and/or space variation of fundamental constants also predict violations of the Weak Equivalence Principle (WEP). Khoury and Weltmann proposed the chameleon model in 2004 and claimed that this model avoids experimental bounds on WEP. We present a contrasting view based on an approximate calculation of the two body problem for the chameleon field and show that the force depends on the test body composition. Furthermore, we compare the prediction of the force on a test body with E\"otv\"os type experiments and find that the chameleon field effect cannot account for current bounds., Comment: Proceedings of the conference "Varying fundamental constants and dynamical dark energy", Sexten Center of Astrophysics,Sexten Primary School - Via Panorama 6, Sexten, Italy, July 2013

Aims. On the basis the theoretical model proposed by Bekenstein for ��'s variation, we analyze the equations that describe the energy exchange between matter and both the electromagnetic and the scalar fields. Methods. We determine how the energy flow of the material is modified by the presence of a scalar field. We estimate the total magnetic energy of matter from the "sum rules techniques". We compare the results with data obtained from the thermal evolution of the Earth and other planets. Results. We obtain stringent upper limits to the variations in �� that are comparable with those obtained from atomic clock frequency variations. Conclusions. Our constraints imply that the fundamental length scale of Bekenstein's theory "lB" cannot be larger than Planck's length "lP".

Upper bounds for the violation of the Weak Equivalence Principle (WEP) by the Fundamental Interactions have been given before. We now recompute the limits on the parameters measuring the strength of the violation with the whole set of high accuracy E��tv��s experiments. Besides, limits on spatial variation of the Fundamental Constants ��, Weinberg angle ��, and v, the vacuum expectation value of the Higgs field, are found in a model independent way. Limits on other parameters in the gauge sector are also found from the strucutre of the Standard Model., 5 pages