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Linear theory of the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability in the low-latitude boundary layerThe feasibility is examined of establishing characteristic profiles across the magnetospheric low-latitude boundary layer for the Kelvin-Helmholtz mode so that these profiles can be compared with satellite observations or a latitudinal chain of ground stations. An anisotropic collisionless fluid model is used instead of conventional MHD, and the finite thickness of the boundary layer and the thickness and position of the current layer are taken into account. The instability is found to be enhanced by a decrease in the thickness of the shear layer and of the current layer and by the proximity of the 'current layer' to the outer edge of the shear layer. The velocity threshold for the onset of instability is insensitive to the thickness. Characteristic profiles of the variation of plasma and field parameters across the boundary are obtained, and the importance of parameters specifying the current layer position and thickness is demonstrated.
Document ID
19910055770
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Rajaram, R.
(Johns Hopkins Univ. Laurel, MD, United States)
Sibeck, D. G.
(Johns Hopkins Univ. Laurel, MD, United States)
Mcentire, R. W.
(Johns Hopkins University Laurel, MD, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1991
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Geophysical Research
Volume: 96
ISSN: 0148-0227
Subject Category
Geophysics
Accession Number
91A40393
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: N00039-89-C-5301
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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