Gravitationella

Gravitationella is a hypothetical scalar field or degree of freedom posited to modify gravitational interactions beyond general relativity. In speculative physics and some science fiction settings, the concept is used to describe an additional gravitational influence that operates alongside the familiar metric gravity.

The framework envisions gravitationella as a scalar field φ that couples to matter and to gravity. Its presence can yield deviations from the inverse-square law at certain distance scales, typically modeled as a short- to intermediate-range fifth force. In many formulations, a screening mechanism reduces the field's effects in high-density environments to comply with solar-system tests.

Gravitationella shares features with scalar-tensor theories of gravity, such as Brans-Dicke-type models, and with modified gravity proposals like f(R) gravity. In this sense gravitationella is not a distinct, independently verified theory, but a term used to discuss how an additional scalar degree of freedom could influence gravitational dynamics.

Experimental and observational status is cautious. No conclusive evidence for gravitationella has been detected. Constraints come from precision tests of gravity in laboratories, planetary motion, and gravitational-wave observations, which limit the strength and range of any additional force.

Research and implications: The concept serves as a framework for exploring how new scalar fields could impact cosmology, structure formation, or satellite dynamics, as well as for studying screening effects and environmental dependence of gravity.

See also: Scalar-tensor theories; Modified gravity; Fifth force; Dark energy.