Abstract
Dynamics of magnetic disturbances in the auroral zone are usually described by the ‘auroral indices’ AU and AL that characterize the intensity of magnetic disturbances produced, respectively, by eastward and westward electric currents (electrojets) flowing in the morning and evening sectors of the auroral zone. Their total, the AE index, is regarded as a measure of disturbance in the auroral zone. During substorm periods a powerful westward electrojet develops in the midnight auroral zone as a result of substorm current wedge formation (Birkeland, 1908) in response to strongly enhanced auroral particle precipitation and short-circuiting of neutral sheet currents through the high conductivity auroral ionosphere.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
