Monitoring the plasmapause using geomagnetic field line resonances

Menk, F.W.; Mann, I.R.; Smith, A.J.; Waters, C.L.; Clilverd, M.A. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7388-1529; Milling, D.K.. 2004 Monitoring the plasmapause using geomagnetic field line resonances. Journal of Geophysical Research, 109 (A4), A04216. https://doi.org/10.1029/2003JA010097

Full text not available from this repository. (Request a copy)

Abstract/Summary

This paper discusses the use of ground magnetometer data to derive plasma mass density profiles of the dayside plasmapause region with spatial and temporal resolution in the range 0.15-0.4 R-E and 20-60 min. This is achieved using cross-phase techniques to identify field line resonance signatures that are not apparent in power spectra. Under quiet conditions, mass density profiles do not show a distinct plasmapause and closely resemble electron density profiles for similar conditions. Under more active conditions the plasmapause can be clearly identified, and its width can be resolved in about 20% of the cases. Spatial integration effects smooth the mass density profiles near the plasmapause boundaries, while comparison of the mass and electron densities allows estimates of the heavy ion mass loading. Temporal variations in the plasmapause position and plasmaspheric density depletions are readily resolved. Sudden changes in solar wind conditions cause a redistribution of plasma within similar to20 min, probably in response to penetration of the magnetospheric electric field into the plasmasphere. Field line resonances occur daily and provide a useful tool for investigating the plasmapause region, especially in conjunction with VLF whistler and in situ particle and imaging experiments. Furthermore, the extensive existing suites of magnetometer data permit retrospective studies of focus intervals.

Item Type:	Publication - Article
Digital Object Identifier (DOI):	https://doi.org/10.1029/2003JA010097
Programmes:	BAS Programmes > Antarctic Science in the Global Context (2000-2005) > Geospace Atmosphere Transfer Functions
ISSN:	0148-0227
Additional Keywords:	field line resonance, plasmapause, ULF resonances
NORA Subject Terms:	Atmospheric Sciences
Date made live:	20 Jan 2012 13:42 +0 (UTC)
URI:	https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/12282

Actions (login required)

View Item

Document Downloads

More statistics for this item...