Some Studies on D-Region Electron Density Profiles

Abstract

Model electron density profiles in the D-region have been prepared for various solar conditions and for mid-latitude and equatorial locations on the basis of production and loss rates of electrons established from the study of a large number of electron density profiles measured under various conditions. It is found that below 8S km, electron density variations follow a linear law of the type <i>q </i> = β <i>N</i>_e<i>, </i> and above this altitude a square law of the type <i>q </i> = ɑ <i>N_e². </i> The electron production rate for any condition of solar activity has been calculated after establishing variations connecting solar activity and solar Lɑ and X-ray intensities in various ranges as obtained from rocket and satellite observations made under various conditions since 1954.