The Source of the Low Latitude Boundary Layer
Abstract
Ion entry into the magnetosphere was studied for different interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) orientations. Field models for the study of ion entry were from the results of global magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations. Ions entering under northward IMF conditions entered on reconnected field lines and entered the flanks of the magnetotail. Some were strongly accelerated during entry at high latitudes. Under southward IMF conditions particles entered through the plasma mantle and only cold ions reached the magnetotail current sheet. In the case of southward IMF with a y component a flux rope was present in the tail. In this case ions reached the flux rope along open field lines and were accelerated there. If the IMF was rotating particles could be accelerated at high latitudes and in the magnetotail.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA342755
Entities
People
- R. J. Walker
- Robert L. Richard
Organizations
- University of California, Los Angeles