| ABSTRACT
A two-dimensional
particle code is used to model the propagation of Alfvén Waves
on auroral field lines. When the perpendicular wavelength becomes
small enough (comparable to the electron inertial length) the waves
will accelerate electrons parallel to the magnetic field. This code
was originally used to study the downward acceleration of electrons
that might be responsible for the discrete aurora. Diagnostics show
that electrons undergo multiple acceleration events. Many electrons
are accelerated downward, are mirrored by the converging magnetic
field and then given an upward boost by the reflected wave. The result
is that upward accelerated electrons have considerably higher energies
and stronger fluxes. Half of these will precipitate in the conjugate
hemisphere and half will become trapped. The trapped fluxes will tend
to accumulate during an acceleration event, leading to an enhanced
population of trapped keV fluxes. These are the likely seed population
for the electron radiation belts.
| |