Mode conversion from kinetic Alfven waves to modified electron acoustic waves

Possible mode conversion from kinetic Alfven wave to modified electron acoustic wave is examined based on a multi-fluid model involving two electron populations. The mode conversion transpires when a kinetic Alfven wave propagates through a transition between a hot-electron-dominant region and a cold-electron-dominant region. It is shown that the mode conversion and the kinetic Alfven wave reflection depend strongly on the hot electron inertial length, the hot electron temperature, and the perpendicular wavelength. The results suggest that such conversion is ubiquitous whenever a steep gradient of electron temperature exists, for example, in the planetary auroral acceleration regions or at the boundary of the solar corona. Published under an exclusive license by AIP Publishing.

Automated summary

This study examines the possible mode conversion from kinetic Alfven wave to modified electron acoustic wave using a multi-fluid model. The results indicate that such conversion is ubiquitous in regions with steep electron temperature gradients, such as planetary auroral acceleration regions or the boundary of the solar corona.