A review is presented of some of the more important properties of Pc 1 (0.2-5cps) emissions observed at middle and low latitudes. Special attention is given to fine structured regular oscillations referred to by various workers as Pearls, Type A Oscillations, and Hydromagnetic (Hm) Emissions. The following aspects of these oscillations are discussed.
a)
Signal Appearance. The emissions are considered from both their amplitude-time (waveform) appearance observed on chart records and their frequency-time (
f-t) characteristics observed on sonagrams. The various types of
f-t fine structure are discussed (rising and falling frequency elements, fan shaped elements, etc.).
b)
Simultaneity of Occurrence at Widely Separated Locations. A high degree of similarity is often found in the appearance of
f-t structural elements of hm emissions recorded simultaneously at widely separated stations. Attention is given to the time-shifts between these elements at stations in the same hemisphere and in opposite hemispheres.
c)
Times of Occurrence. Correlations are considered between times of occurrence of hm emissions and other geophysical effects such as charged particle events, magnetic storms, and variations of the ionospheric parameter
F0F2.
d)
Latitude Effects. Various latitude dependent emission characteristics are discussed. These include latitude variations of emission frequency, fine structure repetition period, and signal amplitude.
In addition to the aspects of the Pc 1 emissions outlined above, properties of two other types of emissions are briefly discussed. One of these signals, referred to here as a “continuous emission” also lies in the Pc 1 category. It is often observed continuously throughout the night and is characterized by a slow variation of
f-t characteristics. The other signal, which might be placed in a Pc 1-Pi 1 transition category, is observed during magnetically disturbed periods. On sonagrams it is characterized by an irregularly spaced rising frequency fine-structure. When monitored aurally on time-compressed magnetic tape (speed-up factor of 1000-2000), it is characterized by a sound similar to bubbles blown under water.
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