Impact of the Quasi Biennial Oscillation on the EEJ Intensity

Abstract

The equatorial electrojet (EEJ) current intensity measured by three satellites at different levels of solar activity and seasons were investigated based on quasi biennial oscillation (QBO) phases. The data used in this study were provided by CHAMP, Swarm A and Swarm B satellites that cover the period of 2000 to 2010 (CHAMP) and 2011 to 2017 (Swarm). The analysis was performed using quiet days data. The EEJ data were categorized based on the QBO phases (eastward and westward) and two different pressure which are 20 hPa and 50 hPa at two solar activity levels; minimum (P =70) and maximum (P =180). The analysis reveals that, the EEJ intensity is stronger at higher level of QBO pressure. This study also reported that at high pressure level, QBO westward are dominant at almost all solar activity levels and seasons. This study is important in order to understand any disturbances in ionosphere that may interfere with communication technology on Earth.