On the Relationship Between the Banded Hiss Distribution and Plasmapause Location: A Survey of Van Allen Probes Observations

Abstract

The plasmapause is the outer boundary of the plasmasphere and plays a crucial role in the propagation of plasma waves. We statistically investigate the relationship between the distribution of banded hiss and plasmapause locations. Wave power distributions of banded hiss are analyzed in terms of two ways: (a) the distance away from the plasmapause (ΔL) and (b) the equatorial distance away from the Earth. Statistical results show both bands of banded hiss have larger wave powers and occurrence rates near the plasmapause. The frequencies of two banded hiss waves both decrease discernably with increasing L-shell at most magnetic local time sectors and geomagnetic activities, but remain nearly constant with increasing ΔL. The highly consistent distribution suggests both bands may be generated in the plume region. The correlation between banded hiss waves and plasmapause locations sheds new light on the generation mechanisms of banded hiss waves.