Heavy ion dynamics and auroral arc formation in the Jovian magnetosphere

This paper gives a brief review of some of the current controversial issues surrounding the Jovian aurora. In particular, the manner of its excitation be it that of electron or heavy ion precipitation is examined critically in the context of proposed models for magnetospheric dynamics, particle energization, and auroral energy input. A model for the X-ray aurora based on bremsstrahlung by a primary electron beam and its ionization secondaries is high-lighted and the connection to the outward magnetospheric transport of heavy ion plasma from the satellite Io is made.