Is Lambda a True Force or Just a Distortion of Spacetime Like Gravity?

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Lambda, or the cosmological constant, is often described as a repulsive force that contrasts with gravity, which is viewed as a manifestation of spacetime geometry rather than a true force. The discussion raises questions about whether lambda acts on matter and energy or directly on spacetime itself, particularly in regions devoid of matter. Participants also ponder the concept of a force that increases with distance, challenging the traditional understanding of distance as a barrier to influence. Additionally, the propagation speed of lambda's influence is questioned, particularly whether it aligns with the speed of light. Overall, the conversation explores the nature and implications of lambda in cosmology and its relationship to gravity.
Gerinski
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Lambda (the cosmological constant) is frequently referred to as a sort of "negative gravity": instead of attractive it's repulsive, and instead of getting weaker with distance it gets stronger.

However in General Relativity gravity is not regarded as a true force, but just as the manisfestation of spacetime's geometry on the movement of matter and energy.

1. Is lambda a true force or just a spacetime distortion like gravity?
If a true force, is it expected to have a carrier particle associated?

2. Does lambda act on matter/energy, or on the fabric of spacetime itself? (would a region of spacetime devoid of any matter/energy stretch due to lambda? or only if it contains matter/energy?)

3. How the hell can we conceive of any influence that gets stronger with distance?
Is not distance, by definition, a concept that "separates"? that makes 2 points in spacetime less likely (or needing longer time) to influence each other?
What could be a conceivable mechanism that allows lambda to have a stronger interaction with something distant than with something close?

4. Is lambda's influence supposed to propagate at the speed of light?
 
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Sorry I double-posted this question. I had it posted in "Physics/Relativity" then I thought it might better be here in Cosmology.
I already got some answers in "Relativity".
If the administrator wishes, he may move one of both, merge them or whatever.
 
An Einstein thing . . . Think about it.
 

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