2002/07/31 by Mordehai Milgrom · 162 citations
Physics and Astronomy · #Astrophysics #Classical mechanics #Cosmology and Gravitation Theories #Dark matter #Galaxy #Galaxy formation and evolution #Galaxy rotation curve #Gravitation #Inertia #Modified Newtonian dynamics #Newtonian dynamics #Newtonian potential #Physics #Scientific Research and Discoveries #Solar and Space Plasma Dynamics #Theoretical physics #astro-ph #gr-qc #hep-ph
paper · pdf · doi:10.1016/s1387-6473(02)00243-9
published in New Astronomy Reviews 46(12), 741-753 (Elsevier BV) · 22 pages, New Astr. Review. in press. Based on a talk presented at the MOND workshop, Paris, October 2001
arxiv created 2002/08/15 · openalex publication_date 2002/11/01 · arxiv updated 2009/11/30 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/05
I discuss open theoretical questions pertaining to the modified dynamics (MOND)--a proposed alternative to dark matter, which posits a breakdown of Newtonian dynamics in the limit of small accelerations. In particular, I point the reasons for thinking that MOND is an effective theory--perhaps, despite appearance, not even in conflict with GR. I then contrast the two interpretations of MOND as modified gravity and as modified inertia. I describe two mechanical models that are described by potential theories similar to (non-relativistic) MOND: a potential-flow model, and a membrane model. These might shed some light on a possible origin of MOND. The possible involvement of vacuum effects is also speculated on.