The difference between the conversion of TE modes and TM modes passing the solar terminator

Ledinegg et al. (1980) have studied mode conversion occurring when an electromagnetic wave of the TM type, which propagates between earth and ionosphere, passes through the boundary between night and day regions. The considered investigation is concerned with the corresponding mode conversion occurring in the case of electromagnetic waves of the TE type. It is found again that the characteristics of mode conversion are very little affected by the electrophysical properties of the ionosphere. The assumption of infinite electrical conductivity along the ionospheric boundary plane provides a good approximation for the resulting behavior of the wave. In the case of TM waves, such an approximation was provided by replacing the ionosphere by a wall of infinite magnetic conductivity. Attention is given to the derivation of the 2 x 2 conductivity tensor in case of TE excitation at the ionospheric boundary, and the deflection and scatter of a TE wave at the solar terminator.