How Does the Ring Current Persist Despite Short-Lived Particle Drift?

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between the azimuthal drift and the typical life expectancy of ring current particles, which are both on the same time scale of hours to days. This raises the question of how there can still be a relevant current to consider, despite the compromised drift. The topic being discussed is planetary magnetic field phenomena.
  • #1
carlos-carlos
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TL;DR Summary
Ring current, azimuthal drift and typical particles life expectancy
I read that "the azimuthal drift is compromized because the typical life expectancy of ring current particles is only hours to days and thus of the same order of magnitude as the drift period". But, if it is so, why relevant current exist? How could we armonize the fact that the azimuthal drift is "compromized" and there a current that we have to consider, at least for its geophysical effect?
 
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  • #2
carlos-carlos said:
Summary:: Ring current, azimuthal drift and typical particles life expectancy

I read that
Please give us the reference to that. And you are asking about planetary magnetic field phenomena, right?
 

1. What is the ring current?

The ring current is a flow of charged particles, mostly protons and electrons, that encircles the Earth in the inner magnetosphere. It is caused by the interaction of the solar wind with Earth's magnetic field.

2. How does the ring current affect Earth?

The ring current can have significant effects on Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere. It can cause disruptions in satellite and radio communications, and also contribute to the formation of auroras.

3. What is azimuthal drift?

Azimuthal drift is the movement of charged particles in the ring current along Earth's magnetic field lines. This movement is caused by the gradient in the magnetic field strength, and can also be influenced by the electric field in the magnetosphere.

4. How does the ring current and azimuthal drift change over time?

The strength and location of the ring current and azimuthal drift can vary depending on the level of solar activity and the orientation of Earth's magnetic field. They can also be affected by other processes, such as geomagnetic storms or changes in the solar wind.

5. What is the role of the ring current and azimuthal drift in space weather?

The ring current and azimuthal drift are important components of space weather, as they can affect the radiation environment in Earth's magnetosphere and can also cause disruptions in satellite and radio communications. Understanding and predicting these phenomena is crucial for protecting technology and infrastructure in space.

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