What Determines the Positioning of Protons and Electrons in the Van Allen Belts?

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SUMMARY

The positioning of protons and electrons in the Van Allen Belts is determined by their mass and energy levels. Protons, which are part of the inner belt, originate from cosmic rays and interact more significantly with Earth's magnetic field due to their higher energy and mass compared to electrons. Electrons, found in the outer belt, are primarily captured plasma from the solar wind. This distinction in positioning is crucial for understanding the dynamics of Earth's radiation belts.

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darkar
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Hello,
the radiation belts consist of electrons and protons that are trapped in a doughnut-shaped region centered around the magnetic equator.This region extends from a few hundred kilometers above the Earth to 48,000 to 64,000 km (30,000 to 40,000 mi).
The electrons and protons are supplied by cosmic rays and by the solar wind, a continuous stream of charged particles—mainly electrons and protons—emanating from the sun.
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The question here is why the position of the proton is in lower region compare to electron? Is this because of the mass difference?

Thx
 
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I'd say that is because the protons of the inner belt are cosmic rays that collide against the magnetic field of earth, and you know that cosmic rays are superenergetic, so they have more capability of penetration that the electrons of the outer belt, that are just plasma captured by the Earth magnetosphere
 

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