How can we better understand energy dissipation in the ionosphere? This research presents a technique for estimating the induction electric field in the ionosphere using ground magnetometer measurements. It addresses the limitation of assuming the ionospheric convection electric field is always a potential field, especially during rapid changes. The study seeks to improve models of energy dissipation in the ionosphere. The technique is demonstrated on real and simulated data for sudden increases in solar wind dynamic pressure. The results show that the ionospheric induction electric field can reach 0.15 mV/m for real data and up to 3 mV/m in simulated data. The authors conclude that the induction electric field can locally constitute tens of percent of the total electric field. Inclusion of the induction electric field increased the total Joule heating by 2.4%. The findings highlight that the Joule heating changed locally by tens of percent. This corresponds to energy dissipation that is not accounted for in existing models, suggesting a need to refine current models of ionospheric electrodynamics.
This article in Geophysical Research Letters aligns with the journal’s focus on geophysics, cosmic physics, and geology. It contributes to the understanding of ionospheric dynamics and energy dissipation, which are central topics within the journal's scope.