A Statistical Examination of EMIC Wave‐Driven Electron Pitch Angle Scattering Signatures

Electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves have long been thought to contribute significantly the variability of Earth's outer radiation belt because their ability scatter relativistic (>0.5 MeV) electrons into loss cone on short timescales. We investigate statistically such pitch angle scattering signatures (“bite-outs”) and quantitative agreement with cold plasma theory. Our analysis is based EMIC wave events local parameters observed simultaneously energetic by Van Allen Probes between February May 2017. determine energy ranges in which electron likely find that, average, wave-driven core (E ≤ 2 possible 28% events. By comparing expected for flux measurements co-located activity, we that are found 46% those. Additionally, more occur under increased geomagnetic activity greater power. These results provide observational evidence common duskside belt.