A time‐dependent theoretical model of the polar wind: Preliminary results

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The coupled time dependent continuity, momentum and energy equations of a two ion (O+ and H+) quasineutral plasma were solved in order to extend our understanding of polar wind behavior. This numerical code allows studies of the time dependent behavior of polar wind‐type flows into and out of the ionosphere. Initial studies indicate that the typical time constants for electron and ion temperature changes are of the order of minutes and tens of minutes, respectively. The response time of the minor high altitude ion O+ is less than an hour, whereas that of the major ion, H+, is many hours. The initial test runs also demonstrate the fact that temporary supersonic flows of both O+ and H+ are possible, especially in the presence of significant ion heating.

This publication has 15 references indexed in Scilit: