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Electrodynamics of the Martian dynamo region near magnetic cusps and loops
Author(s) -
Riousset Jeremy A.,
Paty Carol S.,
Lillis Robert J.,
Fillingim Matthew O.,
England Scott L.,
Withers Paul G.,
Hale John P. M.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1002/2013gl059130
Subject(s) - physics , dynamo , martian , magnetic field , geophysics , mars exploration program , mercury's magnetic field , solar dynamo , dynamo theory , planet , magnetization , magnetosphere , dipole model of the earth's magnetic field , computational physics , electric field , l shell , classical mechanics , interplanetary magnetic field , earth's magnetic field , astrophysics , solar wind , astrobiology , quantum mechanics
Strong and inhomogeneous remanent magnetization on Mars results in a complex pattern of crustal magnetic fields. The geometry and topology of these fields lead to atmospheric electrodynamic structures that are unique among the bodies of the solar system. In the atmospheric dynamo region (∼100−250 km altitude), ions depart from the gyropath due to collisions with neutral particles, while electron motion remains governed by electromagnetic drift. This differential motion of the charge carriers generates electric currents, which induce a perturbation field. The electromagnetic changes ultimately alter the behavior of the local ionosphere beyond the dynamo region. Here we use multifluid modeling to investigate the dynamics around an isolated magnetic cusp and around magnetic loops or arcades representative of the magnetic topology near, for example, Terra Sirenum. Our results show consistent, circular patterns in the electric current around regions with high local field strength, with possible consequences on atmospheric escape of charged particles.