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Potential structures and particle acceleration on auroral field lines

Journal Article · · Adv. Space Res.; (United States)
Observations of plasmas and electric field activity within regions of auroral particle acceleration have verified the existence of electric fields with components parallel to the magnetic field over large altitude regions. Evidence is presented which indicates that small-amplitude double layers along the auroral magnetic field lines may provide a mechanism for the maintenance of auroral ion potential. Evidence is also presented of downward-directed parallel electric fields along the magnetic field lines in the return current region. It is suggested that the downward electric fields may have significant effects on ion trajectories, and further theoretical investigation of the effects of downward parallel electric fields on ion conic formation is recommended. 22 references.
Research Organization:
Aerospace Corp., Los Angeles, CA
OSTI ID:
5603970
Journal Information:
Adv. Space Res.; (United States), Journal Name: Adv. Space Res.; (United States) Vol. 4; ISSN ASRSD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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