Dynamics and electrodynamics of ionospheric inhomogeneities of the midlatitude E region (Review)

Present-day ideas of the formation of inhomogeneities in midlatitude lower-ionosphere plasma are considered. Experimental and theoretical results are described that testify to the existence of anisotropic structures developing at lower-ionosphere altitudes and bring about strong electric fields, narrow echo peaks, and quasi-periodic echoes (detected by coherent radar). The origin of inhomogeneities and structures observed in plasma and neutral components of the lower ionosphere is analyzed.