Ion-neutral coupling effects on low-latitude thermospheric evening winds

These winds drive the evening F region dynamo that affects the equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) and the generation of plasma irregularities. Forces are calculated using the Thermosphere-Ionosphere-Electrodynamics General Circulation Model coupled with the Global Ionosphere-Plasmasphere model.

At 19 LT, the horizontal pressure gradient dominates the net acceleration of neutral winds below ∼220 km, while it tends to be offset by ion drag and viscosity higher up. The eastward pressure-gradient acceleration above 200 km increases approximately linearly with height and tends to be similar for different latitudes and different levels of solar activity. The pressure-gradient and ion-drag forces in the central F region approximately balance for field lines that pass through the EIA.