A two‐fluid solar wind model with Alfven waves: Parameter study and application to observations

Authors:
  • RERuth Esser
    Ruth Esser
  • ELEgil Leer
    Egil Leer
  • SHShadia R. Habbal
    Shadia R. Habbal
  • GWGeorge L. Withbroe
    George L. Withbroe
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Abstract
The effects of Alfven waves from the inner corona on the solar wind density profile, flow velocity and on the random motion of protons are studied. Different base densities, temperatures, and wave velocity amplitudes, as well as different flow geometries, are considered. The model calculations are compared to simultaneous observations of the electron density profile and the resonantly scattered Lyman alpha line. Present observations, out to 4 solar radii, can be used to place limits on the coronal base density and temperature, and put an upper limit on the wave amplitude. It is pointed out that future observations of the electron density and the Lyman alpha line, out to larger heliocentric distances, and of lines from heavier elements, should be used to place more stringent constraints on the amplitudes of MHD waves in the corona.

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