Revisiting compact star in F(R) gravity: Roles of chameleon potential and energy conditions

We reexamine the static and spherical symmetric compact star configuration in the R2 model of the F(R) gravity theory. With asymptotic solutions for the additional scalar degrees of freedom, we refine analysis on the external geometry and settle the scalar-hair problem argued in previous works. Performing the numerical integration of the modified Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff equations as a two-boundaries-value problem, we further discuss the scalar-field distribution inside the compact stars and its influence on the mass-radius relation. We show that the chameleon potential plays an essential role in determining the scalar field inside the star. The scalar field often behaves as a quintessential field that effectively decreases the mass of compact stars with lower central energy density.