Acceleration of electrons by interplanetary shocks

Abstract

Ion acceleration is a well known phenomenon at both interplanetary shocks, while there have been only a few reports concerning an acceleration of electrons at interplanetary shocks. The considered investigation reports that electron acceleration occurs at many shocks. The instrumentation used is discussed, taking into account the ISEE 3 (International Sun Earth Explorer) spacecraft and the electrostatic analyzer employed for the measurement of electrons. Changes in the electron distribution function caused by shocks are found to be quite varied. Some events show a simple step to a higher flux level, some show fluctuations as the flux rises, and some have one or more pulses at the time of the shock. Attention is given to data obtained on July 26, 1979, December 25, 1978, and November 12, 1978. A calculation of shock geometries is also reported.