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Characteristics of electron velocity distribution functions in the solar wind derived from the Helios plasma experimentThe details of the shapes of three typical electron distribution functions observed by the Helios 1 and 2 probes in the solar wind between 0.3 AU and 1 AU are analyzed and compared with theoretical predictions. These are (1) a distribution function with a narrow 'strahl' (narrow beam), which is extremely anisotropic and skewed with respect to the magnetic field direction at particle energies above 100 eV; (2) a distribution function with a broad 'strahl', less anisotropic and skewed; and (3) a nearly isotropic distribution function. For each distribution function, a sudden change in the slope was discerned, separating the 'core' at lower energies from the 'halo' at higher energies. The most obvious differences of the analyzed electron distribution functions were observed at energies above 50-100 eV. The possible origins for the observed features of the distribution functions are discussed.
Document ID
19870045505
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Pilipp, W. G.
(Max-Planck-Inst. fuer Physik und Astrophysik Garching, Germany)
Muehlhaeuser, K.-H.
(Max-Planck-Institut fuer Physik und Astrophysik Garching, Germany)
Miggenrieder, H.
(Bayerisches Staatsministerium fuer Landesentwicklung und Umweltfragen Munich, Germany)
Montgomery, M. D.
(Maxwell Laboratories, Inc. San Diego, CA, United States)
Rosenbauer, H.
(Max-Planck-Institut fuer Aeronomie Katlenburg-Lindau, Germany)
Date Acquired
August 13, 2013
Publication Date
February 1, 1987
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Geophysical Research
Volume: 92
ISSN: 0148-0227
Subject Category
Solar Physics
Accession Number
87A32779
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: BMFT-WRS-0108
CONTRACT_GRANT: BMFT-WRS-10/7
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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