The Role of Preceding CMEs and SIRs in Enhancing Shock Acceleration of Electrons

Abstract: The role of large-scale pre-existing interplanetary structures, including preceding coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and stream interaction regions (SIRs), in shaping the shock acceleration environment for energetic electrons remains not fully understood. In this study, we investigate nine interplanetary shocks observed by the Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO) that are associated with significant MeV electron enhancements, as such enhancements are rarely observed at interplanetary shocks. We combine remote-sensing observations, drag-based modeling, and in-situ measurements to analyze the shock propagation through pre-existing interplanetary structures. Eight of the nine events are associated with a preceding slow or intermediate-speed CME, while six shocks are in-situ observed propagating within preceding ICMEs, indicating that large-scale upstream trapping structures are a common feature of these events. Further analysis identifies three distinct scenarios associated with enhanced electron acceleration: shocks propagating through preceding ICMEs, shock-SIR interactions, and direct injection of flare-accelerated electrons into SIRs. As a representative shock-in-ICME event, the 2012 January 29 low-$β$, quasi-perpendicular shock ($θ_{Bn}\sim87<sup>\circ$) is further investigated using observations together with one-dimensional Monte Carlo test-particle simulations of a shock propagating into a large-scale upstream magnetic loop. The simulation suggests that the upstream loop prolongs electron residence near the shock and substantially enhances acceleration efficiency. These results demonstrate that large-scale interplanetary structures can precondition the upstream magnetic environment, providing favorable conditions for prolonged electron residence and efficient shock acceleration.