Linearized higher-order gravity and stellar structure (Q5955367)

In the framework of the gravitational theory which includes besides the Einstein-Hilbert action curvature squared terms the stability of stellar objects is considered. The corresponding field equations are linearized, with the additional assumption that the field is weak and static and that the source of the field is a perfect fluid thus arriving at the hydrodynamical equilibrium conditions which are comparable with the Newtonian Lane-Emden equation. For different media (polytropic index) the equations are solved. The influence of the higher order terms with respect to Newtonian stellar structure is discussed.