Phase- and local-time-resolved comparison for the preferred case. Model local-time profiles and M³ comparison points for E_c = 0.520 eV and E_w = 0.090 eV, grouped by nearest 30° model phase bin. Blue shading shows the model abundance range across the low-latitude 0°–30° sampling interval, and orange shading shows the corresponding range across the midlatitude 30°–60° interval. Solid curves show the mean model abundance within each latitude interval. M³ points are plotted in the corresponding local-time and latitude bins. Phase labels identify the plasma regions sampled by the M³ points: MT, magnetotail; DW, dawn sheath; SW, solar wind; DK, dusk sheath. Mixed labels indicate phase bins containing M³ points from adjacent plasma regions.