SM51F-4313:
Two Dimensional Physical Chemistry Model of the Io Plasma Torus
Friday, 19 December 2014
Matthew Copper, Geophysical Inst - - IARC, Fairbanks, AK, United States, Peter A Delamere, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, United States and Andrew J Steffl, Southwest Research Institute, Boulder, CO, United States
Abstract:
The Io plasma torus can be characterized by sinusoidal longitudinal (system III and system IV modulation) variations and radial variations. Using the two dimensional model we will explore the sensitivity of radial and azimuthal variations in density, temperature, and composition. Model input parameters include radial transport, hot electron abundance, and iogenic neutral source rate. We will demonstrate how events, such as changes in neutral source due to volcanic eruption on Io, can effect the torus composition in the equatorial plane. These results will be paired with Cassini UVIS data to show what events can cause observed torus changes. In addition to explaining observed trends, the sensitivity study will allow us to predict possible future observations (from the EXCEED mission) and their causes.
