Variability of the Magnetospheric Convection Electric Field (MCEF) Under Shock Activity During the Solar Cycle 24

In the present work, we have analyzed the statistical variability of the MCEF under shock activity during solar cycle 24 as a function of the different phases of solar cycle 24 and as a function of the seasons. We compared the MCEF under shock periods with that under quiet periods. Solar cycle 24 recorded an average MCEF value of 0.28816888 mV/m, i.e. an average value of 0.26399935 mV/m for the ascending phase, 0.2961038 mV/m for the maximum phase and 0.28652747 mV/m for the descending phase. The minimum quantitative deviation from quiet activity observed is 59%. Seasonally, the highest MCEF values were recorded in Summer and Winter, and the lowest in Autumn and Spring. The corresponding mean values are 0.32707785 mV/m, 0.30966472 mV/m, 0.27061512 mV/m and 0.27020401 mV/m respectively. The minimum quantitative deviation from quiet activity observed is 66 %. This study showed that in most cases magnetic reconnection occurs on the night side between 1800 UT and 2400 UT.