An abrupt increase in pressure associated with interplanetary shocks will compress the Earth's magnetic field. This leads to a sudden impulse also observed in low-latitude magnetometer records. These events are followed by heavily damped oscillations of approximately 5 min periods, depending on plasma conditions. The general features are explained by a simple model. Our results are supported by satellite and ground-based observations. The results are also important for space–weather predictions.

The present review describes a number of laboratory studies of low-frequency electrostatic drift wave turbulence together with related results obtained by instrumented spacecraft in the Earth's near and distant ionospheres. The summary emphasizes readily measurable quantities, such as the turbulent power spectra for the fluctuations in plasma density, potential and electric fields. A number of future studies are suggested in order to resolve some outstanding issues.