On the Seeding of Equatorial Plasma Bubbles by Longitudinal Variations in the Meridional Wind
Abstract
Abstract We report results from SAMI3/WACCM‐X simulations that small‐scale (few 100 km) longitudinal variations in the meridional wind provide seeds to initiate equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs). The meridional wind variations generate variations in the ion density along the magnetic field via ion‐neutral collisions. This in turn leads to longitudinal variations in the Pedersen conductivity and conductance producing localized E B drifts that can initiate EPBs. The spatial dependence of the meridional wind variations can also determine the longitudinal spacing of EPBs.
Key Points
Objective
The research explores how small-scale variations in meridional wind can initiate equatorial plasma bubbles.
Methods
- Conducted SAMI3/WACCM-X simulations to model atmospheric conditions.
- Examined the impact of longitudinal variations in meridional wind on ion density.
- Analyzed the resulting changes in Pedersen conductivity and E B drifts.
Results
- Identified that meridional wind variations can seed equatorial plasma bubbles.
- Found that these variations lead to localized changes in ion density and conductivity.
- Demonstrated that the spacing of equatorial plasma bubbles is influenced by the spatial distribution of wind variations.