The Non-linear Evolution of Whistler-mode Waves at the Dayside Magnetopause and Its Relation to Magnetic Reconnection and Particle Acceleration
Résumé
Whistler-mode waves have been observed at the subsolar magnetopause in association with magnetic reconnection, including near the electron diffusion region (EDR) and near the separatrices. Observations by the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission have shown oblique whistler-mode waves at the electron edge of the reconnection layer that are coincident with time-domain structures such as double layers and electrostatic solitary waves, as well as intense Langmuir oscillations. Additionally, large amplitude non-linear parallel oscillations often coincide with these waves, and may be the result of interactions between the whistler-mode waves and electron-acoustic waves, similar to what has been observed in the radiation belts. We present results of an investigation by MMS into the non-linear evolution of these whistlers and their effects on the local plasma population. Preliminary results suggest that the waves are less common near EDR candidates than on the separatrices and that, via non-linear parallel electric fields, they contribute to direct acceleration of electrons.