Ionospheric Currents Associated with Solar Flares: A Short Review

Abstract

The enhanced radiation of the X-rays and the ultra-violets during a chromospheric flare can induce a qualitative change in the ionospheric current system. The observational results of this effect, popularly known as geomagnetic solar flare effect (s.f.e,), are briefly reviewsed. Various theoretical formulations to explain the morphological results are described. The success as well as the shortcomings of the various theories are pointed out.