Mathematics – Probability
Scientific paper
Apr 2003
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2003eaeja....10129h&link_type=abstract
EGS - AGU - EUG Joint Assembly, Abstracts from the meeting held in Nice, France, 6 - 11 April 2003, abstract #10129
Mathematics
Probability
Scientific paper
We have studied the production of photoions at Mercury using a Monte Carlo model, and have computed distribution functions and precipitation maps for photoions produced from several neutral species, such as O and Na. The input to the simulations is a position dependent velocity space distribution of each neutral specie at the planetary surface. We then compute ballistic trajectories of neutrals drawn from this surface distribution. Apart from gravity, the force from radiation pressure is included for Na and K. Along the trajectory, the neutral is photoionized with a probability according to the photoionization rate. Then the trajectories of produced photoions are followed until they reaches a simulation boundary: the magnetopause or the planetary surface. Along the photoion's trajectory we collect the time spent in each cell on a grid, to estimate the ion densities. We also register all ions that precipitate on the planetary surface, to produce a precipitation map. The field models are static, and for the magnetic field we used a scaled Tsyganenko model of Earth's magnetosphere. The electric field is assumed to be the solar wind electric field, with the component parallel to the magnetic field removed. Using the computed precipitation maps, the amount and morphology of sputtered neutrals, due to precipitating photoions, can be estimated. Among other things, it is found that photoions can be accelerated to high energies before impacting the planetary surface, e.g., several keV for oxygen.
Barabash Stas
Holmström Mats
No associations
LandOfFree
Monte Carlo simulations of global planetary ion distributions at Mercury 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 Monte Carlo simulations of global planetary ion distributions at Mercury, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Monte Carlo simulations of global planetary ion distributions at Mercury will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-844806