Magnetospheric dynamo processes

Abstract

Three processes are examined whereby an effective electromotive force and energy input arise in circuits of magnetospheric currents, even in the absence of time-varying magnetic fields. The first involves currents on 'open' field lines, linking the ionosphere with the solar wind, and it underscores the role of polarization currents. The second may exist on the current filament observed in the vicinity of Jupiter's satellite Io. The third may operate along the high-latitude boundary of the earth's magnetic tail, from where it pumps energy into the plasma sheet.