Abstract
We combine the one‐dimensional, distributed region 1 current model of Lotko et al. (1987) with the two‐dimensional, distributed region 2 current model of Vasyliunas (1972) to produce the first model to distribute both region 1 and region 2 currents in two dimensions (no sheet currents) and to calculate both currents mutually consistently from a single applied transpolar potential. The solutions give ionospheric equipotentials and electric field profiles for all local times and latitudes and Birkeland current contours and profiles everywhere within the auroral annulus. The Birkeland current contours comprise a symmetrical pair of spirals unwinding counterclockwise with region 0, 1, and 2 segments. The model predictions are compared with DE 2 data with noted points of agreement and disagreement. We list steps needed to develop the model further.
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