On the Consequences of Bi-Maxwellian Distributions on Parallel Electric Fields
Abstract
Observations made by the SCATHA and DE-1 spacecraft reveal the existence of equatorially trapped plasmas. These plasmas may be described by a bi-Maxwellian distribution function. A resultant parallel electric field arises as a consequence of this distribution. This thesis models the latitudinal density profiles and the resultant parallel electric field that occurs by integrating the particle distributions to obtain the density, and assuming quasi neutrality to solve for the electric potential and hence the electric field. The results show that the density profile is a maximum at the equator and the equatorially trapped plasma is confined closer to the equator for higher anisotropy ratios. The modeled density profiles are in agreement with some observations. The electric fields that result are on the order of 0.1 microvolt/m pointing away from the magnetic equator with greater anisotropy leading to larger electric field strength. Density minimums have also been observed at the magnetic equator. This minimum can be explained by the presence of a field aligned electron distribution. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA246206
Entities
People
- Lewis J. Scott
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School