Problems of Collsionless Shocks Physics: Theory and Multipoint Measurements Versus PIC Simulations
Résumé
Multipoint data obtained in recent multi-spacecraft studies lead to advance in such complex problems of shock of physics as the magnetic ramp structure and shock nonstationarity. PIC simulations are an important tool in studies of shocks in a broad range of parameters typical for heliospheric shocks and astrophysical shocks as well. Appropriate choice of the simulation parameters, like the electron-to-proton mass ratio and the ratio of the plasma frequency to the gyrofrequency, is crucial to proper interpretation of the results and comparison with observations. We discuss the parameter scaling in the existing PIC simulations and their applicability to the observations of the heliospheric shocks.