Mechanisms for Latitudinal Transport of Energetic Particles in the Heliosphere

Abstract

Energetic particles in the heliosphere, from relatively low-energy particles which are accelerated in Corotating Interaction Regions (CIRs) to galactic cosmic rays, are observed to propagate relatively easily in heliographic latitude. Two mechanisms for this transport appear possible: cross-field diffusion, or, in a recent model for the heliospheric magnetic field, by direct magnetic connection. The commonalties and differences of these two mechanisms are considered, and the need for future observations and modeling efforts are discussed.