Ion-acoustic solitary waves in Mars’ lower ionosphere

Abstract

This study suggests that ionic species dynamics generate electrostatic ion-acoustic solitary waves (IASWs) in Mars' ionosphere. Based on observational evidence, it has been determined that the dayside ionosphere of Mars, specifically within the altitude range from 200 to 350 km, predominantly consists of ions such as $O_2^+$, $O^+$, and $CO_2^+$, alongside the presence of superthermal electrons.
This study investigates the occurrence, propagation, and properties of IASWs.
The derivation of the evolution equation is conducted for waves with small-but-finite-amplitude. In order to analyze IASWs with large amplitude, the Sagdeev pseudo-potential is obtained. The model predicts the propagation of electrostatic IASWs within an electric field range of 1 to 6 mV/m, and pulse duration period of 0.5 to 4 ms.
Fast Fourier analysis of the electric field pulse revealed pulses from 0.8 to 4 kHz.This study aims to examine the various elements that impact the presence, transmission, and characteristics of nonlinear ion-acoustic solitary waves.
The derivation of the evolution equation is conducted for waves with small but finite amplitudes. In order to analyze internal atmospheric solitary waves (IASWs) with variable amplitudes, the Sagdeev pseudo-potential is acquired. The model accurately predicts the propagation of electrostatic solitary waves within an electric field range of 0.7 to 1.4 mV/m.
By employing quick Fourier analysis on the electric field pulse, it was determined that an anticipated period of 0.4 ms and a frequency of around 1 kHz could be observed.