Pattern of Ionization Gradient, Solar Quiet Magnetic Element, and F2‐Layer Bottomside Thickness Parameter at African Equatorial Location

The study of ionization gradient (dN/dh) profile in the description of ionospheric dynamics is not common. This is the first attempt at finding the dependence of ionization gradient, solar quiet component (Sq (BH)), and bottomside thickness parameter (B0) in the African equatorial sector. Digisonde and Magnetic Data Acquisition System data collocated at an equatorial location were employed. Result was presented for sunrise (00 LT), midday (12 LT), sunset (18 LT), and midnight (00 LT) hours. The ionization gradient peak height remains unchanged at midday across all months. A percentage correlation of 93% existed in the inverse and direct linear relationship of dN/dh‐B0 at sunrise, and of Sq (BH)‐B0 at midday, respectively. Significant relationship between dN/dh and Sq (BH) was at sunset; for other hours, the relationship is poor. The multiple linear relationship of dN/dh‐Sq (BH)‐B0 parameters revealed that the dependence of dN/dh on Sq (BH) and B0 is highest at midday, and a model equation was presented. The dependence of dN/dh on the solar activity index (F10.7) holds at all the selected hours, and distinct only at midday and midnight for the Sq (BH)‐F10.7 and B0‐F10.7 patterns. Both the peak ionization gradient and the height it occurs maximizes/minimizes at 18 LT/06 LT. The importance of the F region dynamo at heights above 150 km was reported. Key Points The dependence of ionization gradient on Sq current and F region bottomside thickness parameter is highest at midday The height at which the peak ionization magnitude was obtained remain unchanged at midday hour across all months considered Increase/decrease dN/dh magnitude propels decrease/increase B0 value at sunrise across all months (r = −0.9293)