Relation of the F2 region to stratospheric parameters: Dependence on magnetic activity in two solar cycles

The dependence of the correlation coefficient r(h, fo) between the stratospheric parameter h(100) and critical frequency foF2 revealed in the data of two solar cycles (1979–1989 and 1990–2000) on geomagnetic activity is analyzed. It is shown that the character of the r(h, fo) dependence on limitation on the Ap geomagnetic index is the same in both cycles but depends on the time of day and solar activity level for the given year. It is also found that there is a considerable difference in the absolute values of r(h, fo) between two cycles.