The Thermosphere and the F-Region - A Reconciliation of Theory with Observations.
Abstract
Our present knowledge of the processes determining the F-region behavior is examined by performing detailed comparisons between theoretical and measured F-region quantities. Much of the work is devoted to adjusting the thermospheric composition and temperature as well as the neutral wind velocity. It is found that the seasonal composition changes have two main components - an annual component with a minimum and a semi-annual component with a maximum in the equatorial region. The exospheric temperature exhibits a much larger seasonal variation than indicated by present atmospheric models. The agreement between the required and theoretically obtained wind velocities is not always satisfactory, particularly at lower latitudes. Some of the relevant ion reaction rates as well as the heat input rate to the electron gas are examined. Some changes are suggested. Finally, all the modifications introduced in this work are tested by comparing the theoretical results with observations during the eclipse of March 7, 1970. (Modified author abstract)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 19, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0774149
Entities
People
- Peter Stubbe
Organizations
- Pennsylvania State University