Variability of parameters of the F2-layer maximum in the quiet midlatitude ionosphere under low solar activity: 2. Strong fluctuations of critical frequency

This paper presents a qualitative analysis of the properties and particular examples of strong (10% < |δfoF2| < 30%) and very strong (|δfoF2| > 30%) fluctuations in the critical frequency of the F2 layer (foF2) of the quiet ionosphere at midlatitudes under low solar activity according to the Irkutsk station data for 2007–2008. It is found that strong day-to-day fluctuations in foF2 are mainly related to changes in thermospheric parameters, which have a nature of planetary waves and tides. Evidently, very strong day-to-day fluctuations in foF2 are caused by superposition of the effects in the ionosphere caused by changes in the thermospheric parameters and those related to a complex of processes of solar wind interaction with the magnetosphere, including the effects caused by the reversal of the vertical component of the solar wind magnetic field southwards. The increase in foF2 during nighttime hours in winter up to values typical for the daytime maximum in foF2 is the brightest example of very strong changes in foF2 in the quiet ionosphere.