Effects of QCD-based equation of state on properties of compact stars in gravity’s rainbow

Abstract In this work, we study the structural and dynamical properties of compact stars using a QCD-motivated equation of state (EoS) within the framework of Gravity’s Rainbow. This theory was proposed as a way to bridge the gap between general relativity and quantum mechanics. Utilizing the modified Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff (TOV) equations, this study examines the impact of energy-dependent spacetime metrics, inspired by doubly special relativity, on the equilibrium configurations of compact stars, particularly those composed of deconfined quark matter. Particularly, we focus on the important consequences arising from applying strong interaction effects, color superconductivity, and the presence of a finite density jump across the quark-hadron interface in the equation of state. In a systematic approach, we investigate the mass-radius relations and compactness of stars, showing the impact of the rainbow on the maximum stable mass and radii of QSs. Notably, the resulting mass-radius relations are well-supported by recent high-precision astrophysical observations, such as the NICER measurement of PSR J0740+6620 and gravitational wave observations (e.g., GW170817). Estimates further confirm these models within observational bounds, while dynamical stability analysis ensures that these configurations are dynamically stable in a large parameter space. Based on these findings, we conclude that quark stars in Gravity’s Rainbow are compact object solutions with viability, as well as provide new avenues in terms of interplay between exotic matter, modified gravity, and observable astrophysical effects.