Physics Department Seminar University of Alaska Fairbanks


J O U R N A L    C L U B

 

Solar Cycle Variations in Plasma Convection

 
by
 
Dr. Angeline Burrell
A finalist candidate for the Physics faculty position

 

ABSTRACT

Plasma convection over the poles shows the result of direct interactions between the terrestrial atmosphere, magnetosphere, and the sun. The paths that the ionospheric plasma takes in the polar cap form a variety of patterns, which have been shown to depend strongly on the direction of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) and the reconnection rate. Whilst the IMF and level of geomagnetic activity clearly alter the plasma convection patterns, the influence of changing solar irradiance is also important. The solar irradiance and magnetospheric particle precipitation regulate the rate of plasma production, and thus the ionospheric conductivity. Previous work has demonstrated how season alters the convection patterns observed over the poles, demonstrating the importance that solar photoionisation has on plasma convection. This study investigates solar cycle variation in plasma convection using measurements made by the Super Dual Auroral Radar Network (SuperDARN).



 

Note day time and place: Wednesday, 15 February 2017

Elvey Auditorium, Elvey Building

10:30 PM