Dartmouth Events

Abstract: Electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves can be driven by the temperature anisotropy of the hot ring current (10s of keV) particles in the inner magnetosphere. Their growth and evolution can be affected by the cold particle density and ion composition. These waves can have fairly high amplitude, up to a 10th of the background magnetic field. They are thought to have a significant effect on radiation belt electrons through pitch angle scattering. We use a hybrid code (particle ions and fluid electrons) simulation and test particle calculations to theoretically study the evolution and properties of these waves, and their effects on the radiation belt electrons. We find that these waves can affect even radiation belt electrons with energy lower than that required for resonance with the dominant waves.