Spatial Curvature in $f(R)$ Gravity

Understand

In this work, we consider four $f(R)$ gravity models -- the Hu-Sawicki, Starobinsky, Exponential and Tsujikawa models -- and use a range of cosmological data, together with Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampling techniques, to constrain the associated model parameters.

• Our main aim is to compare the results we get when $\Omega_{k,0}$ is treated as a free parameter with their counterparts in a spatially flat scenario.
• The bounds we obtain for $\Omega_{k,0}$ in the former case are compatible with a flat geometry.
• It appears, however, that a higher value of the Hubble constant $H_0$ allows for more curvature.