Plasma Flows Near the Neutral Sheet of the Magnetotail.
Abstract
The Lepedea on board ISEE 1 is used to investigate the bulk flow plasma in the neutral sheet region (defined as the area where BX approx = 0) of the magnetotail. For the majority of crossings there is no appreciable change in the macroscopic plasma parameters, i.e., the density, temperature and velocity of the plasma remain constant through the neutral sheet. This is true even during active periods, when AE somewhat > 100nT. However, for a small number of crossings, all during disturbed times, large plasma bulk velocities abs. val V > or = 300 km/s are observed. The velocity distributions during these events are qualitatively similar to those of the plasma sheet boundary layer that is usually observed at higher latitudes. The acceleration mechanism which creates the plasma sheet boundary layer extends to relatively small radial distances during these active periods. (Reprints).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA175774
Entities
People
- C. Y. Huang
- Louis A. Frank
- T. E. Eastman
Organizations
- University of Iowa