Field-line connection between scintillation and ionospheric conditions causing spreadE

Analysis of amplitude records of transmissions from satellites indicates that F-region irregularities causing scintillation and ionospheric conditions causing spread E are connected by the magnetic-field lines. The connection between spread E and scintillation can be explained by the E × B instability mechanism proposed by G. C. Reid (1968). Other evidence presented to support this hypothesis includes (1) the negative (positive) correlation between scintillation activity and magnetic activity south (north) of Jamaica, which is located in the vicinity of the Sq focus, and (2) the presence of spread E at the foot of ionization troughs caused by neutral winds.