Electron Energization by Inertial Alfven Waves in Density Depleted Flux Tubes at Jupiter

Juno satellite observations have illustrated substantial examples of broadband electron energization up to 10(5)-10(6) eV levels. In order to explain these observations, we use a hybrid gyrofluid kinetic-electron model in an untilted dipolar topology to illustrate energization to high levels in weak current conditions by inertial Alfven waves close to the Jupiter ionosphere for ambient plasma densities and magnetic field perturbations inferred from Juno satellite observations. The key to the high energization is the extremely low densities evident in the observations which necessitates the acceleration of electrons to very high velocities in order to carry the field-aligned current.

Automated summary

Juno satellite observations have shown significant levels of electron energization, reaching up to 10⁵-10⁶ eV. To explain these observations, a hybrid gyrofluid kinetic-electron model is used in an untilted dipolar topology, illustrating high energization in weak current conditions through inertial Alfven waves close to the Jupiter ionosphere. This is achieved with ambient plasma densities and magnetic field perturbations inferred from Juno satellite data. The key factor enabling the high energization is the extremely low densities observed, requiring the acceleration of electrons to very high velocities to carry the field-aligned current.