Abstract
The exchange of energy between the plasma mantle and the plasma sheet boundary layer (PSBL) is examined with a one‐dimensional magnetotail model. The energy exchange occurs via Poynting flux generated by the localized mode conversion of a surface wave to an Alfvén wave. This Poynting flux propagates through the lobe and into the PSBL where it is absorbed by two processes. The first arises from a gradient in the plasma β causing a smooth absorption of Poynting flux. The second process results from the localized mode conversion of the decaying surface wave to an Alfvén wave, causing a localized absorption of energy. A numerical solution of the linearized ideal MHD equations is obatined by assuming an adiabatic equation of state. The energy flux absorbed within the PSBL is of the order of 1 µW/m² (assuming a fluid displacement of 1 RE at the plasma mantle) and varies with central plasma sheet temperature in a manner capable of triggering a thermal catastrophe in the boundary layer.
Published Version
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