Two-dimensional Hybrid Simulation of Whistler Excitation by Unstable Particle Distributions

We present results from a two-dimensional hybrid fluid-PIC model applied to the study of whistler wave interaction with energetic electrons. Using parameters appropriate to the equatorial radiation belts, we have studied the excitation of whistlers by unstable particle distributions and the self-consistent modification of the unstable distribution functions. This research has applications for understanding the origin of many types of whistler phenomena, including large-amplitude waves and chorus.