Naslov
MLT Plasmapause Characteristics: Comparison Between THEMIS Observations and Numerical Simulations

Autori
Verbanac, Giuliana ; Bandić, Mario ; Pierrard, Viviane ; Cho, Junghee

Izvornik
JOURNAL OF GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH-SPACE PHYSICS (2169-9380) 123 (2018), 3; 2000-2017

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, članak, znanstveni

Ključne riječi
plasmapause characteristics, THEMIS observations, numerical simulations

Sažetak
We perform a statistical comparison of the global behavior of the THEMIS observed and simulated plasmapause in the geomagnetic equatorial plane. Simulation is based on the interchange instability mechanism. Analyzing plasmapause positions ( L PP s) from the period July 2008 to December 2012, we derived formation and propagation characteristics of the main plasmapause, which reflect the most probable global plasmapause behavior. The results suggest a global eastward azimuthal plasmapause propagation and a radial plasmapause motion limited to the 21–07 MLT sector. The formation of the plasmapause takes place with the highest probability at postmidnight. It is likely that the erosion occurs in a range of MLTs simultaneously. On the dayside, the plasmapause moves almost entirely azimuthally. We suggest that the plasmapause propagates azimuthally with a mean angular velocity close to the corotation speed at all MLTs, at least during periods of lower geomagnetic activity. The results also show that the experimental plasmapause characteristics are in accordance with the interchange instability mechanism. Along with the proposed suggestions for future works, this study contributes to making a further step toward resolving some of the long-lasting, unresolved issues related to plasmapause dynamics.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Fizika, Geofizika

POVEZANOST RADA