How to Calculate Subsolar Magnetopause Distance at 0.4 AU?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the subsolar magnetopause distance (r_mp) at a distance of 0.4 AU from Earth. The user utilized the solar wind density of 5 cm-3, a solar wind speed of 400 km/s, and a magnetic field at Earth's surface of 5 x 10-6 T. The user applied the equations for thermal pressure and magnetic field adjustment based on distance but initially obtained an unreasonable value for r_mp. Ultimately, the user resolved the issue independently.

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  • Understanding of solar wind parameters, specifically density and speed.
  • Familiarity with magnetic field calculations, particularly at varying distances.
  • Knowledge of the magnetic constant permeability (u_0) and its application in physics.
  • Proficiency in applying equations related to magnetopause distance calculations.
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  • Study the derivation and application of the magnetopause distance formula.
  • Learn about the effects of solar wind on magnetospheric dynamics.
  • Explore advanced topics in plasma physics related to magnetic fields.
  • Investigate the role of thermal pressure in magnetopause calculations.
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Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and researchers in space physics who are interested in magnetospheric studies and the dynamics of solar wind interactions with planetary magnetic fields.

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Homework Statement

Hi!
I need to calculate the subsolar magnetopause distance (r_mp) when the distance to Earth is 0.4 AU. I have all the formulas and the data, but I still don’t get a reasonable value (it’s too small!)
Here is what I know:

Solar wind density: 5 cm^-3 (rho_sw)
Solar wind speed=400 km/s (u_sw)
Magnetic field at Earth’s surface= 5*10^-6 T (B_E)
u_0= magnetic constant permeability= 4*pi*10-7 T m/A

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


First I start to calculate the thermal pressure:

p= rho_sw*(u_sw)^2

next, the magnetic field when the distance is 0.4 AU, where r= 1AU * 0.4:

B(0.4)=B_E*(R_E/r)And finally I use the following equation to get the distance I am searching for in term of Earth radius R_E:

(r_mp/R_E)=[(2*B(r)^2)/( u_0*p)]^1/6

But as I mentioned, the value is not “the right one”. Can I get help from someone?
Thanks!
 
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I solved it, so no need to help me :)
 

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