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The solar wind-magnetosphere energy coupling and magnetospheric disturbancesEnergy coupling between the solar wind and the magnetosphere is examined and the influence of this coupling on magnetospheric disturbances is discussed. Following a review of the components of the total energy production rate of the magnetosphere and progress in the study of solar wind-magnetosphere correlations, the derivation of the solar wind-magnetosphere energy coupling function, which has been found to correlate well with the total magnetospheric energy production rate, is presented. Examination of the relations between the energy coupling function and the type of magnetic disturbance with which it is associated indicates that magnetic storms with a large sudden storm commencement and a weak main phase are associated with small energy coupling, while values of the coupling function greater than 5 x 10 to the 18th to 10 to the 19th erg/sec are required for the development of a major geomagnetic storm. The magnetospheric substorm is shown to be a direct result of increased solar wind-magnetosphere energy coupling rather than the sudden conversion of stored magnetic energy. Finally, it is indicated that at energy couplings greater than 10 to the 19th erg/sec, the positive feedback process responsible for substorms breaks down, resulting in the abnormal growth of the ring current.
Document ID
19800056266
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Akasofu, S.-I.
(Alaska, University Fairbanks, Alaska, United States)
Date Acquired
August 10, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1980
Publication Information
Publication: Planetary and Space Science
Volume: 28
Subject Category
Geophysics
Accession Number
80A40436
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7447
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSF ATM-77-26522
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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