Qualitative analysis of a quasi-magnetic Universe

Abstract We investigate the cosmological dynamics induced by nonlinear electrodynamics in a homogeneous and isotropic Universe, focusing on the role of primordial electromagnetic fields with random spatial orientations. Building upon a generalization of the Tolman–Ehrenfest averaging procedure, we derive a modified energy-momentum tensor consistent with the spacetime symmetries, incorporating the influence of the dual invariant G and its statistical contributions. A specific nonlinear electrodynamics model with quadratic corrections to Maxwell’s Lagrangian is considered, giving rise to what we define as a quasi-magnetic Universe, interpolating between purely magnetic and statistically null field configurations. We analyze the resulting cosmological dynamics through qualitative methods. By casting the equations into autonomous dynamical systems, we identify the equilibrium points, determine their stability, and study the behavior of solutions under various spatial curvatures. Our findings reveal the existence of bouncing and cyclic solutions, regions where energy conditions are violated, and scenarios of accelerated expansion. Special attention is given to two limiting cases, both of which exhibit qualitatively distinct phase portraits and energy-condition behavior. This work provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the influence of nonlinear electromagnetic fields in the early Universe and opens avenues for exploring their observational consequences.