A Model for the Excitation of Electron Aurora and Some Applications

Abstract

An auroral model which has been found useful in the discussion of auroral spectra and excitation processes is described in detail. The model is similar to that of Rees and Jones and takes into account excitation by primary and secondary electrons, thermal electrons, and dissociative recombination. The growth of electron and ion concentrations, NO concentration, and electron temperatures are computed. Predicted intensities and their variation with atmospheric composition and primary particle energy spectrum are plotted and compared with observed values. The results given cover the N₂⁺ first negative system, the N₂ first and second positive systems, the O₂ atmospheric and IR atmospheric systems, as well as the 5577 Å and 6300–6364 Å [O I] multiplets. Concentration height profiles and integrated emission intensities are given for N(²D), O⁺(²D), and O⁺(²P) as well as estimates of potential production rates from the N(²D)–O, N(²D)–O₂, O⁺(²D)–N₂, O⁺(²D)–O, N₂(A³Σ)–O, N₂(A³Σ)–NO, and O₂⁺–NO energy transfer reactions.