The Effects of Strong and Weak Solar Flares on the Total Electron Content in the Ionospheric Ionosphere during the 2011 Solar Peak

Abstract

Solar flares (SFs) represent abrupt releases of energy occurring near complex solar regions. The interaction between solar flare radiation and ionospheric components results in an immediate upsurge in electron density within the ionosphere. This study investigates the effects of both strong and weak solar flares on the Total Electron Content (TEC) in the ionospheric sphere, utilizing the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) in Jaipur, India, during the peak period of the solar year. During the 2011 solar peak, three solar panels were selected for analysis, and the study observed a maximum increase in TEC, reaching 24 TEC units, between strong and weak solar flares. Notably, improvements in ionospheric TEC were detected 16–18 hours after solar flare events. A TEC values were recorded at the coordinates (26.9124° N, 75.7873° E). To delve deeper into these phenomena, additional statistical analysis using NOAA data aimed to establish correlation relationships. Positive correlations were identified between TEC and ion temperature, TEC and natural temperature, as well as TEC and electron temperature. Particularly noteworthy is the very high positive correlation relationship between Tn/K and Ti/K, with a correlation coefficient of 0.92.