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Global problems in magnetospheric plasma physics and prospects for their solution

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Abstract

Selected problems of magnetospheric plasma physics are critically reviewed. The discussion is restricted to questions that are ‘global’ in nature, i.e., involve the magnetosphere as a whole, and that are beyond the stage of systematic survey or isolated study requirements. Only low-energy particle aspects are discussed. The article focuses on the following subjects: (i) Effect of the interplanetary magnetic field on topography, topology and stability of the magnetospheric boundary; (ii) Solar wind plasma entry into the magnetosphere; (iii) Plasma storage and release mechanisms in the magnetospheric tail; (iv) Magnetic-field-aligned currents and magnetosphere-ionosphere interactions. A brief discussion of the prospects for the solution of these problems during and after the International Magnetospheric Study is given.

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  1. Juan G. Roederer

    Present address: Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska, 99701, Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

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  1. Dept. of Physics and Astronomy, University of Denver, 80208, Denver, Colo., USA

    Juan G. Roederer

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Prepared for the Panel on Heliosphere Hydromagnetics of the National Academy of Sciences and for the Steering Committee of the International Magnetospheric Study.

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Roederer, J.G. Global problems in magnetospheric plasma physics and prospects for their solution. Space Sci Rev 21, 23–71 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00194998

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