%0 Journal Article
%4 sid.inpe.br/iris@1905/2005/07.26.22.40.49
%2 sid.inpe.br/iris@1905/2005/07.26.22.40.57
%@issn 0273-1177
%F 2886
%T Stratification processes in the atmospheric sodium layer: observations and theory
%D 1990
%A Clemesha, Barclay Robert,
%B Advances in Space Research
%V 10
%N 10
%P (10)59-(10)70
%K AERONOMIA, ATMOSPHERIC LASERS, ATMOSPHERIC TIDES, SODIUM LAYER.
%X The mechanisms responsible for the formation of the alkali metal layers seem to be quite different in nature to those responsible for other atmospheric layers. In discussing the sodium layer in this context we must include both the mechanisms responsible for its basic production and the phenomena which produce structures within the layer. Although there is little doubt that the sodium layer owes its origin to the deposition into the atmosphere of extra-terrestrial material, how this deposition leads to the formation of a narrow layer of free sodium atoms is still an open question. With respect to the formation of structures within the layer it is clear that tides and gravity waves play an important role, although there can be little doubt that other factors are also at work. Of particular interest is the observation of thin layers having peak densities about an order of magnitude greater than normal, and a width an order of magnitude less. A number of mechanisms for the formation of these layers have been discussed in the literature, including direct meteor deposition, ion layer formation via the windshear mechanism, and evaporation from aerosol layers. None of these mechanisms has been analysed in detail, however, and the origin of these layers is still open to debate.
%@language en
%3 1-s2.0-027311779090010W-main.pdf
%O COSPAR-ESPOO, 27, 18-29 July, 1988, Helsinkei, FI.