DYNAMICAL RESPONSE OF THE THERMOSPHERE TO IMPULSIVE HEATING,
Abstract
The response of the upper atmosphere to general types of impulsive heat sources is calculated by use of analytic solutions of the heat conduction equation of Thomas (1967). It is found that time-lags of the maximum temperature and density are distinctly different and are strongly dependent upon altitude. This contrasts with satellite drag measurements of the density time-lag following sudden increases in the geomagnetic field, which indicate no appreciable altitude-dependence. The relationship between the energy q injected into the atmosphere and the geomagnetic disturbance index alpha sub p is shown to be very closely q oc the square root of alpha sub p over the entire range of disturbances. The results indicate that the heating producing the geomagnetic effect is considerably more complex than generally expected. However, the simple relationship q oc the square root of alpha sub p suggests a common heating mechanism that is present at all levels of activity. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0665882
Entities
People
- B. K. Ching
- G. E. Thomas
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation