Mapping and energization in the magnetotail. II - Particle acceleration

Mapping with the Tsyganenko (1989) or T89 magnetosphere model has been examined previously. In the present work, an attempt is made to evaluate quantitatively what the selection of T89 implies for steady-state particle energization. The Heppner and Maynard (1987) or HM87 electric field model is mapped from the ionosphere to the equatorial plane, and the electric currents associated with T89 are evaluated. Consideration is also given to the nature of the acceleration that occurs when cross-tail current is suddenly diverted to the ionosphere.