We generalize previous work by considering a novel gravitational model with an action given by an arbitrary function of the Ricci scalar, the matter Lagrangian density, a scalar field and a kinetic term constructed from the gradients of the scalar field, respectively. The gravitational field equations in the metric formalism are obtained, as well as the equations of motion for test particles, which follow from the covariant divergence of the stress-energy tensor. Specific models with a nonminimal coupling between the scalar field and the matter Lagrangian are further explored. We emphasize that these models are extremely useful for describing an interaction between dark energy and dark matter, and for explaining the late-time cosmic acceleration.

• Received 12 October 2012

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.87.047501