Global MHD modeling of resonant ULF waves: Simulations with and without a plasmasphere

• Published in: Journal of geophysical research. Space physics Vol. 121; no. 1; pp. 227 - 244
• Main Authors: Claudepierre, S. G., Toffoletto, F. R., Wiltberger, M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.01.2016
• Subjects: field line resonance; global MHD simulation; plasmasphere; radiation belts; resonant ULF wave coupling; waveguide; resonant ULF wave coupling; radiation belts; field line resonance; plasmasphere; global MHD simulation; waveguide
• ISSN: 2169-9380; 2169-9402
• DOI: 10.1002/2015JA022048

We investigate the plasmaspheric influence on the resonant mode coupling of magnetospheric ultralow frequency (ULF) waves using the Lyon‐Fedder‐Mobarry (LFM) global magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model. We present results from two different versions of the model, both driven by the same solar wind conditions: one version that contains a plasmasphere (the LFM coupled to the Rice Convection Model, where the Gallagher plasmasphere model is also included) and another that does not (the stand‐alone LFM). We find that the inclusion of a cold, dense plasmasphere has a significant impact on the nature of the simulated ULF waves. For example, the inclusion of a plasmasphere leads to a deeper (more earthward) penetration of the compressional (azimuthal) electric field fluctuations, due to a shift in the location of the wave turning points. Consequently, the locations where the compressional electric field oscillations resonantly couple their energy into local toroidal mode field line resonances also shift earthward. We also find, in both simulations, that higher‐frequency compressional (azimuthal) electric field oscillations penetrate deeper than lower frequency oscillations. In addition, the compressional wave mode structure in the simulations is consistent with a radial standing wave oscillation pattern, characteristic of a resonant waveguide. The incorporation of a plasmasphere into the LFM global MHD model represents an advance in the state of the art in regard to ULF wave modeling with such simulations. We offer a brief discussion of the implications for radiation belt modeling techniques that use the electric and magnetic field outputs from global MHD simulations to drive particle dynamics. Key Points Magnetosphere responds as a resonant waveguide to ULF fluctuations in solar wind dynamic pressure Inclusion of a plasmasphere has a substantial impact on the nature of the simulated ULF waves Inclusion of a plasmasphere leads to a deeper penetration of azimuthal electric field oscillations