Physics
Scientific paper
Feb 2008
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2008georl..3503107d&link_type=abstract
Geophysical Research Letters, Volume 35, Issue 3, CiteID L03107
Physics
6
Magnetospheric Physics: Planetary Magnetospheres (5443, 5737, 6033), Planetary Sciences: Solar System Objects: Saturn, Magnetospheric Physics: Magnetosphere: Inner, Magnetospheric Physics: Magnetosphere/Ionosphere Interactions (2431), Magnetospheric Physics: Magnetosphere Interactions With Satellites And Rings
Scientific paper
A non-thermal tail to the electron distribution function has been measured in the inner magnetospheres of both Jupiter and Saturn. These ``hot'' electrons are only a small fraction (<1%) of the total electron density, yet their influence on the gas tori at Jupiter and Saturn is significant. We explore the role of hot electrons in both systems using a simplified homogeneous physical chemistry model. Our results suggest that the hot electrons are a dominant source of energy input into the Io plasma torus. This energy input is required to sustain the ~TW of power radiated in the UV and EUV as well as to sustain the high ionization state of the torus. At Saturn, the energy input is negligible, but the hot electrons dominate ionization. We propose that the observed azimuthal electron density modulation at Saturn is caused by an azimuthally varying hot electron abundance.
Bagenal Fran
Delamere Peter A.
No associations
LandOfFree
Longitudinal plasma density variations at Saturn caused by hot electrons 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 Longitudinal plasma density variations at Saturn caused by hot electrons, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Longitudinal plasma density variations at Saturn caused by hot electrons will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1320175