Partially aligned gradient instability in the ionosphere

Journal Article · Mon Mar 01 04:00:00 EST 1976 · J. Geophys. Res.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1029/JA081i007p01361· OSTI ID:7365076

Whitehead, J D

Ionization irregularities which are almost but not exactly aligned along the magnetic field may grow much more rapidly than purely aligned irregularities in the presence of a background gradient of ionization and current flow. The stability of these irregularities is considered, taking into account the finite thickness of the gradient and shear in the ion motion. It is shown in particular that the normal E region of the ionosphere is usually stable, whereas sporadic E is often unstable, and this may limit the compression of metallic ions to form such layers. The F region may sometimes be unstable. Temperature zone conditions are considered throughout. (AIP)

• Research Organization: Ionosphere Research Laboratory, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802
• OSTI ID: 7365076
• Journal Information: J. Geophys. Res.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Geophys. Res.; (United States) Vol. 81:7; ISSN JGREA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

640201* -- Atmospheric Physics-- Auroral
Ionospheric
& Magetospheric Phenomena
71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
E REGION
EARTH ATMOSPHERE
ELECTRON DENSITY
F REGION
INSTABILITY
IONIZATION
IONOSPHERE
MAGNETIC FIELDS
PLASMA INSTABILITY
PLASMA MACROINSTABILITIES
PLASMA WAVES
SAUSAGE INSTABILITY
SPORADIC E
TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCE