Spontaneous scalarization in scalar–tensor theories with conformal symmetry as an attractor

Abstract Motivated by constant-G theory, we introduce a one-parameter family of scalar–tensor theories as an extension theory in which the conformal symmetry is cosmological attractor. Since model has coupling function negative curvature, expect spontaneous scalarization to occur and that parameter can be constrained pulsar timing measurements. Modeling neutron stars with realistic equations state, study structure calculate effective scalar star these theories. We find within region where observational constraints are satisfied, almost coincides derived using quadratic same curvature. This indicates obtained will used limit curvature universally future.