On the influence of turbulence on the magnetic focusing length of solar energetic particles

Project Description:

Magnetic focusing has long been known to influence the transport of solar energetic particles, particularly in the inner heliosphere. Most transport modelling endeavours have modelled the focusing length of these particles by assuming a Parker model for the heliospheric magnetic field (HMF). However, it is known that Parker field lines can meander significantly due to turbulence. The influence of this effect on the magnetic focusing effect has never been considered before. In this project, the influence of turbulence on the focusing length will be modelled using a simplified approach for turbulent fluctuations transverse to the background Parker HMF. This expression will then be compared with that derived for a uniform Parker HMF using outputs yielded by a two-component turbulence transport model in the inner heliosphere, so as to ascertain whether turbulence could indeed play a significant role in this process. Comparisons of the calculated focusing lengths with diffusive length scales calculated from various scattering theories will also be made, so as to ascertain which mechanisms predominate in terms of their influence on the transport of solar energetic particles.

Research Area:

Space Physics

Project Level:

Honours

This Project Is Offered At The Following Node(s):

(NWU)

Special Requirements:

Very good mathematical and programming skills.