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OB1
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I'm trying to find the approximate electron number density of the Earth - what physicists call n_{e} - but can't actually get the value anywhere. Does anyone know what the value of this constant is?
Electron number density refers to the number of electrons per unit volume in a given space. It is a measure of the concentration of electrons in a particular location.
The electron number density of the earth is typically measured using satellite instruments that detect the presence of electrons in the upper atmosphere. These instruments use techniques such as radio occultation and plasma wave measurements to calculate the electron density.
The electron number density of the earth can be affected by various factors such as solar activity, geomagnetic activity, and atmospheric conditions. Solar activity can increase the number of free electrons in the upper atmosphere, while geomagnetic activity can influence the flow of electrons. Atmospheric conditions, such as temperature and pressure, can also impact the electron number density.
The electron number density of the earth is important because it plays a crucial role in various physical and chemical processes in the upper atmosphere. It affects the propagation of radio signals, the formation of auroras, and the dynamics of the ionosphere. It also has implications for satellite communications and navigation systems.
The electron number density of the earth typically decreases with increasing altitude in the upper atmosphere. This is because the density of the neutral particles also decreases with altitude, leading to a decrease in the number of electrons available for ionization. However, this trend may vary depending on the location and the presence of other factors such as solar activity and geomagnetic activity.