Exact Friedmann solutions in higher-order gravity theories

We find the general behaviour of homogeneous and isotropic cosmological models in some fourth-order theories of gravity. Explicit, exact, general solutions are given for both empty universes and those filled with a perfect fluid. For the vacuum case, solutions are found with closed, open and flat geometries, whilst the perfect fluid solutions are all spatially flat. Both early and late-time limits are studied, and attractor behaviour towards simple power-law expansion is identified. Multiple solutions to the same theories, with the same matter content and topology are found. It is shown that these solutions exhibit a great variety in their evolution.