Observations of joule and particle heating in the auroral zone

Details Observations of joule and particle heating in the auroral zone Observations of joule and particle heating in the auroral zone

Feb 1977

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1977jatp...39..179b&link_type=abstract

Journal of Atmospheric and Terrestrial Physics, vol. 39, Feb. 1977, p. 179-193. Research supported by the Max-Planck-Institut f

Physics

17

Atmospheric Heating, Auroral Zones, Ohmic Dissipation, Resistance Heating, Thermosphere, Diurnal Variations, Electric Fields, Electron Precipitation, Far Ultraviolet Radiation, Incoherent Scattering, Ionospheric Electron Density, Magnetic Disturbances, Radar Scattering

Scientific paper

Observational data from the Chatanika, Alaska incoherent scatter radar have been used to deduce atmospheric heating rates associated with particle precipitation and joule dissipation. During periods when Chatanika is in the vicinity of the auroral oval the height-integrated heat input to the lower thermosphere can be as large as 100 ergs per sq cm per sec with joule and particle heating rates of comparable magnitude. Altitude profiles of these heat inputs are also obtained, showing that the energy liberated by joule dissipation tends to peak at a substantially higher altitude (about 130 km) than that due to particles (100-120 km). As a consequence, it follows that joule heating can be expected to provide a rapid means for creating thermospheric disturbances. It is also pointed out that joule and particle heating are permanent features of the auroral oval and polar cap. As such, expansion of the auroral oval leads to an increase in the total global heating and, hence, to the close relationship between magnetic disturbances and thermospheric perturbation.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Observations of joule and particle heating in the auroral zone 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 Observations of joule and particle heating in the auroral zone, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Observations of joule and particle heating in the auroral zone will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-800076