Atmospheric excitation and ionization by ions in strong auroral and man-made electric fields

摘要: Ions gyrating in crossed electric (E) and magnetic (B) fields may acquire an energy of 2mE2B2. In found near auroras, ions sufficient to excite sometimes also ionize molecules. On the assumption that subsequent emission contributes significantly glow outside discrete auroral forms, cross-sections for excitation atmospheric species by low (1–30 eV) are found. When these become known, field be estimated from ground-based measurements this glow. At greater strengths (≳ 250 mV/m) ionization air helium 23S state occur. The sustain ionosphere aurora. An experiment test theory is proposed which Ba+ (a heavy ion) injected into ionosphere. need evident understand physics strong vice versa, photometric atmosphere provide useful guide-lines designing laboratory experiments. application (by natural standards) upper rockets or orbiting vehicles study resultant glows should value understanding not only aspects aurora but electrodynamics thermosphere.