Protonospheric Energy Sources
Location
Yosemite National Park
Start Date
2-6-1974 11:00 AM
End Date
2-6-1974 11:15 AM
Description
Plasma temperatures in the protonosphere exceed those in the ionosphere. Consequently, heat normally flows down through the plasma into the ionosphere. This flow has been verified by radar observations, and must be included in any successful theory of the thermal structure of the ionosphere and protonosphere. The protonospheric plasma is preferentially heated by at least two sources: photoelectrons produced in the ionosphere below, and ring current particles. The former are thought to control the magnetically quiet, low and middle latitude protonospheric energy budget while the latter become important during storms and at high latitudes, and apparently cause phenomena such as SAR arcs. Measurements and theoretical estimates of these source strengths and their variations will be discussed along with the physical mechanisms which are likely to transform particle translational energy into plasma thermal energy.
Protonospheric Energy Sources
Yosemite National Park
Plasma temperatures in the protonosphere exceed those in the ionosphere. Consequently, heat normally flows down through the plasma into the ionosphere. This flow has been verified by radar observations, and must be included in any successful theory of the thermal structure of the ionosphere and protonosphere. The protonospheric plasma is preferentially heated by at least two sources: photoelectrons produced in the ionosphere below, and ring current particles. The former are thought to control the magnetically quiet, low and middle latitude protonospheric energy budget while the latter become important during storms and at high latitudes, and apparently cause phenomena such as SAR arcs. Measurements and theoretical estimates of these source strengths and their variations will be discussed along with the physical mechanisms which are likely to transform particle translational energy into plasma thermal energy.