Thin ion layers in the high-latitude lower ionosphere

Details Thin ion layers in the high-latitude lower ionosphere Thin ion layers in the high-latitude lower ionosphere

May 1997

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1997adspr..19..149k&link_type=abstract

Advances in Space Research, Volume 19, Issue 1, p. 149-158.

Other

6

Scientific paper

Thin ion layers in the high-latitude lower ionosphere can be produced by the action of wind-shears and electric fields on metallic and other ions and, perhaps, by other processes. Modelling studies have been used to study the two former mechanisms and it has been found that electric field effects will usually dominate those of winds at auroral latitudes, producing layers at altitudes as low as 90 km. When electric fields are very small, however, layers should be produced by tidal winds or gravity waves, as they are at other latitudes. A considerable number of observations of thin ion layers have been made during the 10 years of operation of the EISCAT incoherent scatter radar. Most, but not all, of these layers are likely to be composed of metallic ions. Many fit well with model calculations of formation by electric field action, others are better explained as a result of wind shear. The average seasonal and daily variations of the occurrence frequency and altitude distribution of the layers can be well explained by a combination of the effects of winds and electric fields. However, a number of puzzling features still remain unexplained, for example the correlation of metallic ion layers with layers of neutral atoms and the extreme thinness of some of the layers. The successes and failures of the theories of their formation will be discussed.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Thin ion layers in the high-latitude lower ionosphere does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Thin ion layers in the high-latitude lower ionosphere, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Thin ion layers in the high-latitude lower ionosphere will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-832272