Substorm classification with the WINDMI model

The results of a genetic algorithm optimization of the WINDMI model using the Blanchard-McPherron substorm data set is presented. A key result from the large-scale computations used to search for convergence in the predictions over the database is the finding that there are three distinct types...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: W. Horton, R. S. Weigel, D. Vassiliadis, I. Doxas
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Copernicus Publications 2003-01-01
Series:Nonlinear Processes in Geophysics
Online Access:http://www.nonlin-processes-geophys.net/10/363/2003/npg-10-363-2003.pdf
Description
Summary:The results of a genetic algorithm optimization of the WINDMI model using the Blanchard-McPherron substorm data set is presented. A key result from the large-scale computations used to search for convergence in the predictions over the database is the finding that there are three distinct types of <i>v<sub>x </sub>B<sub>s</sub> -AL </i>waveforms characterizing substorms. Type I and III substorms are given by the internally-triggered WINDMI model. The analysis reveals an additional type of event, called a type II substorm, that requires an external trigger as in the northward turning of the IMF model of Lyons (1995). We show that incorporating an external trigger, initiated by a fast northward turning of the IMF, into WINDMI, a low-dimensional model of substorms, yields improved predictions of substorm evolution in terms of the <i>AL</i> index. Intrinsic database uncertainties in the timing between the ground-based <i>AL </i>electrojet signal and the arrival time at the magnetopause of the IMF data measured by spacecraft in the solar wind prevent a sharp division between type I and II events. However, within these timing limitations we find that the fraction of events is roughly 40% type I, 40% type II, and 20% type III.
ISSN:1023-5809
1607-7946