Research Article Open Access

A New Method to Correlate a Possible Coupling between the Upper and the Lower Atmosphere

Wayan Suparta1 and Grahame J. Fraser2
  • 1 Institute of Space Science (ANGKASA), University Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
  • 2 Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand

Abstract

Problem statement: Sun-earth coupling studies are one of the methods of projection to explain certain physical mechanisms of how solar activity can influence weather/climate changes. Approach: To gain insight of the above challenge, analysis of propagation delays in GPS-transmitted signals in the upper and lower atmosphere during transient events associated with intense geomagnetic storms was conducted within the Antarctic polar cap. Results: An increase in Total Electron Content (TEC) indicates an increase in the density of energetic particles in the atmosphere and major changes in the signals would affect the water vapor phase transition in the troposphere. Conclusion/Recommendations: From the correlation between the ionospheric TEC and atmospheric Precipitable Water Vapor (PWV) variations, the Global Electric Circuit (GEC) is identified as a possible physical mechanism for the coupling process.

American Journal of Applied Sciences
Volume 9 No. 6, 2012, 894-901

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3844/ajassp.2012.894.901

Submitted On: 14 December 2011 Published On: 20 March 2012

How to Cite: Suparta, W. & Fraser, G. J. (2012). A New Method to Correlate a Possible Coupling between the Upper and the Lower Atmosphere. American Journal of Applied Sciences, 9(6), 894-901. https://doi.org/10.3844/ajassp.2012.894.901

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Keywords

  • GPS TEC-PWV
  • upper-lower atmosphere
  • coupling mechanism