Proton Energization by Phase Steepening of Parallel-propagating Alfvénic Fluctuations

Abstract

Proton energization at magnetic discontinuities generated by phase-steepened fronts of parallel-propagating, large-amplitude Alfvénic fluctuation is studied using hybrid simulations. We find that dispersive effects lead to the collapse of the wave via phase steepening and the subsequent generation of compressible fluctuations that mediate an efficient local energy transfer from the wave to the protons. Proton scattering at the steepened edges causes nonadiabatic proton perpendicular heating. Furthermore, the parallel electric field at the propagating fronts mediates the acceleration of protons along the mean field. A steady-state is achieved where the proton distribution function displays a field-aligned beam at the Alfvén speed, and compressible fluctuations are largely damped. We discuss the implications of our results in the context of Alfvénic solar wind.