EarthRef.org Reference Database (ERR)
Development and Maintenance by the EarthRef.org Database Team

Detailed Reference Information
Akasofu et al. 1980
Akasofu, S.-I., Kisabeth, J., Ahn, B. and Romick, G.J. (1980). The SpQ magnetic variation, equivalent current, and field-aligned current distribution obtained from the IMS Alaska meridian chain of magnetometers. Journal of Geophysical Research 85: doi: 10.1029/JA085iA05p02085. issn: 0148-0227.

The solar quiet daily variation (Spq) in the polar region is studied by using magnetic records on March 12, 1978 (&Sgr;Kp=6-), and on March 25, 1978 (&Sgr;Kp=6-), from the International Magnetospheric Study Alaska meridian chain. The results are somewhat different from those obtained by earlier studies which dealt with an exceptionally quiet day (&Sgr;Kp=~1+). The results are discussed in terms of the ionospheric current distribution and field-aligned current distribution, computed on the basis of the Spq magnetic field vector distribution. On a quiet day the type I and type II field-aligned currents and the connected ionospheric currents are mostly confined in the dayside half of the polar region. Comparing these current distributions with those on a moderately distrubed day, one can see that both current systems extend along the auroral oval to the nightside half of the polar cap on a distrubed day. It is also shown that it is not justifiable to infer the convection pattern by using the distribution of magnetic vectors (thus by assuming that Spq variations are caused mainly by the Hall current).

BACKGROUND DATA FILES

Abstract

Journal
Journal of Geophysical Research
http://www.agu.org/journals/jb/
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
2000 Florida Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009-1277
USA
1-202-462-6900
1-202-328-0566
service@agu.org
Click to clear formClick to return to previous pageClick to submit