Prospects of Comparing Van Allen Probes Data with Recent Nonlinear Radiation Belt Theory
Abstract
We consider the prospects of comparing recently developed theory and simulations of nonlinear wave processes with Van Allen Probes observational data. Electron gyro-resonant interaction with whistler-mode chorus waves is considered to be a prime mechanism for generating relativistic electrons in Earth's outer radiation belt. Resonant pitch angle scattering by chorus can also cause significant electron precipitation loss from the inner magnetosphere. Whistler-mode waves can as well act to suppress radiation belt electron fluxes below a theoretical (Kennel-Petschek) limit. Nonlinear cyclotron resonance theory is required to analyze the nonlinear characteristics of whistler-mode wave generation and the interaction of chorus with radiation belt electrons. We discuss recently developed nonlinear theory that involves wave trapping of resonant electrons near the equator and the formation of an electron hole in the phase space. The resulting formation of a resonant current causes nonlinear growth of a wave with rising frequency. Nonlinear wave trapping plays a significant role in both the generation of whistler-mode chorus emissions and the acceleration of radiation belt electrons to relativistic energies. A fraction of radiation belt electrons can be energized extremely efficiently by special wave trapping mechanisms called "relativistic turning acceleration" and "ultra-relativistic acceleration". In this presentation we summarize the salient features of whistler-mode wave generation and these associated acceleration processes,and discuss how they can be compared with particle and wave data from the Van Allen Probes mission.
- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2013
- Bibcode:
- 2013AGUFMSM33C..02S
- Keywords:
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- 2730 MAGNETOSPHERIC PHYSICS Magnetosphere: inner;
- 2774 MAGNETOSPHERIC PHYSICS Radiation belts;
- 2772 MAGNETOSPHERIC PHYSICS Plasma waves and instabilities