Physics and Chemistry of the Upper Atmosphere

M. H. Rees (Author)

9780521368483, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 25 August 1989

300 pages
23.6 x 19.2 x 1.9 cm, 0.53 kg

"...collects in one place information that is scattered in the literature and is useful for researchers and students who want to learn about the complex chemistry and dynamics of the highest part of the atmosphere." H. Nieuwenhuijzen, Space Science Reviews

This textbook focuses on the physics and chemistry of the Earth's upper atmosphere, which is bounded at the bottom by a pressure level at which most of the incoming ionizing radiation has been absorbed, and bounded at the top by the level at which the escape of gas becomes important. The plan of the book is to identify the multitude of processes that operate in the upper atmosphere, and to relate them to observed phenomena by detailed mathematical and physical descriptions of the governing processes. Basic information from many disciplines such as radiation physics and chemistry, fluid dynamics, optics, and spectroscopy is skilfully marshalled to give a coherent account of the upper atmosphere. This book is outstanding as an introduction to the primary literature and current problems for students of physics or chemistry. The text is supported by numerous diagrams, bibliography and index.

1. An overview
2. The interaction of energetic solar photons with the upper atmosphere
3. The interaction of energetic electrons and ions with the upper atmosphere
4. Collisions and reactions
5. Ion and neutral composition of the upper atmosphere
6. Temperatures in the upper atmosphere
7. Spectroscopic emissions
8. Dynamics of the thermosphere and ionospere
Appendices
Index.

Subject Areas: Atmospheric physics [PHVJ]