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Macroscopic electric fields driven by lower-hybrid turbulence and acceleration of thermal electrons in the foot of quasi-perpendicular shocks

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 March 2009

A. A. Galeev
Affiliation:
Max-Planck-Institut für Kernphysik, Postfach 103980, Heidelberg, Germany
M. A. Malkov
Affiliation:
Max-Planck-Institut für Kernphysik, Postfach 103980, Heidelberg, Germany
H. J. Völk
Affiliation:
Max-Planck-Institut für Kernphysik, Postfach 103980, Heidelberg, Germany

Abstract

A new mechanism is suggested that draws non-resonant thermal electrons into a higher-velocity range, where they can be effectively accelerated by waves. We argue that the acceleration of a small number of pre-existing resonant particles influences the dynamics of the bulk plasma and results in a macroscopic electric field. The solution for the spatial dependence of this electric field is obtained, and it appears to be a new type of electrostatic shock, which forms only in the presence of background turbulence. This field enriches the region of resonant particles with thermal electrons, which leads to a build-up of an excess of accelerated particles. The number of accelerated particles is calculated. This mechanism appears as a good candidate to explain electron acceleration in the foot of quasi-perpendicular shocks.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1995

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