A Turbulence Theory Solution of the Quasilinear Theory Puzzle

J. W. Bieber, W. H. Matthaeus and C. W. Smith

Proceedings of the 23rd International Cosmic Ray Conference (Calgary), 3, 211-214 (1993)

Abstract:

Computations of particle scattering in dynamical magnetic turbulence suggest that consensus ideas about cosmic ray mean free paths may require substantial revision. We find, in particular, that proton and electron mean free paths are fundamentally different at low to intermediate (less than 50 MV) rigidities. At the same time, the presence of a 2D component of interplanetary magnetic turbulence can boost predicted mean free paths of both species over a wide rigidity range. We review the ``Palmer consensus'' along with some recent observational results and conclude that they favor this new picture of cosmic ray scattering.