Possibility of robust detrended fluctuation analysis as a method for identifying fractal properties of geomagnetic time series

Abstract

Geomagnetic data has been demonstrated to exhibit fractal properties, which are analysed using various fractal methods. These methods allow the characterization of geomagnetic activity during certain periods using the Hurst exponent. In this study, the geomagnetic activity during the quiet period of the month of December 2011 is analysed using the r-DFA method, of which viability to identify fractal properties of geomagnetic data has not been tested yet, and also using its established predecessor; the detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA). The results show that the r-DFA method is indeed viable to be used upon geomagnetic time series, with comparable if not better performance compared to its predecessor.