A consistent scalar-tensor cosmology for inflation, dark energy and the Hubble parameter

A Friedman cosmology is investigated based on scalar-tensor gravitation with general metric coupling and scalar potential functions. We show that for a broad class of such functions, the scalar field can be dynamically trapped using a recently suggested mechanism. The trapped scalar can drive inflation and accelerated cosmic expansion, compatible with standard requirements. The inflationary phase admits a natural exit with a value of the Hubble parameter dictated by the duration of inflation in a parameter independent manner. For inflationary duration consistent with the GUT description, the resulting Hubble parameter is found to be consistent with its observed value. - Highlights: • First model for inflation and dark energy in cosmology and core-collapse supernovae in astronomy to be unified under the same theory. • Achieved with a natural simple extension of Einstein's General Relativity using a new scalar field. • Potentially far-researching consequences in cosmology for dark matter, dark energy and inflation, testable through core-collapse supernovae.