Relative ion composition variation over the dip equator - A comparison of measurements with IRI
Abstract
A graphical comparison of four ion composition measurements, obtained in the early morning at the Thumba equatorial station during 1978-1982, with an IRI model (1981) is presented. Underestimation, with the IRI model, of the NO(+)/O2(+) ratios by a factor of at least 1.6 except in the midlatitudes is observed; ion dynamics are studied to explain this occurrence. The electron density is decreased and the molecular ion concentration increased proportionately at night. NO(+) ions drift downward due to Pedersen currents prevalent as a part of the electrojet current system, thereby, increasing the ion concentration downward.
- Publication:
-
Journal of Atmospheric and Terrestrial Physics
- Pub Date:
- November 1985
- DOI:
- 10.1016/0021-9169(85)90026-1
- Bibcode:
- 1985JATP...47.1081S
- Keywords:
-
- Equatorial Atmosphere;
- Ionospheric Ion Density;
- Molecular Ions;
- Positive Ions;
- Atmospheric Models;
- Night Sky;
- Nitric Oxide;
- Oxygen;
- Rocket Sounding;
- Vertical Distribution