Stellar model in third order Lovelock gravity

Abstract

We present a spherically symmetric stellar model within the framework of seven dimensional third order Lovelock gravity for a neutral perfect fluid distribution. The third order Lovelock field equations are generated for such a fluid configuration by imposing pressure isotropy. This condition yields a first order nonlinear differential equation which is an extension of the Abel differential equation. This is due to the additional higher order curvature effects arising in third order Lovelock gravity. We demonstrate new exact solutions that can model a static spherically symmetric star. The energy density and pressure are both variable. We also show that a special case arises, which is a constant density model with a cosmological interpretation. Furthermore, we illustrate the matching conditions to generate a spherically symmetric stellar model in third order Lovelock gravity when the EGB and third order Lovelock coupling constants are related.