The formation and vertical movement of dense ionized layers in the ionosphere due to neutral wind shears

Abstract

This paper analyzes Dungey's wind-shear mechanism for the formation of sporadic E layers and the extension of this mechanism, proposed by the author, which causes vertical transport of ionospheric ionization. Approximate equations are derived to describe quasi-steady ionized layers in which forces due to wind shear in the neutral atmosphere are balanced by the effects of pressure gradients and recombination. Numerical solutions are given to illustrate these effects separately and together. The results indicate that the wind-shear mechanism does indeed produce thin, dense layers of ionization, and that the vertical transport mechanism is also effective, particularly at E-region levels.