Investigation of electron density variation in some regions of the Ionosphere at Nsukka, Nigeria

Okeke FN¹, Onwuneme SE¹ and Hanson EA²*

Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.

Centre for Basic Space Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author. Email: hansonestty@yahoo.com. Tel : +234-806-932-7779.

Accepted 10 June, 2009

   Abstract

The variations of electron density in some regions of the ionosphere at Nsukka (6.50° N and 7.2° E) in Nigeria were investigated. The dependence of these variations on the 11 year solar cycle, seasonal changes, diurnal and altitude effects were analysed. The results of the analyses reveal that the electron density concentration in the ionosphere is dependent on heights. Our results also confirm the non-existence of the sun’s ionizing radiation at night in this region. It has been found that the electron density variations in Nsukka are of 11 year solar cycle. The years of high solar activities correspond to high electron density in Nsukka, while the years of low solar activities are also years of low electron density. Consequent to the findings from this study, it was found that in Nsukka electron density variations are higher in months of April and September, implying that electron densities attain maximum value during this period. The observed trends in electron density variations in the ionosphere at Nsukka may be attributed to the solar control of the ionosphere.

Key words: Electron density, magnetic variation, solar activity.