The Production of Neutrons and Protons by the Cosmic Radiation at 14,125 Feet

The production of neutrons and protons in various substances by the cosmic radiation was investigated with proportional counters at the Mt. Evans Laboratory (barometer 46 cm). Neutrons were studied with counters filled with B${\mathrm{F}}_3$ and cadmium absorbers. The neutron counter was surrounded by water, so that nearly all the neutrons should be slow, and also so that the neutrons measured should nearly all have been produced in the water, very few of those produced elsewhere reaching the counter. Protons were observed in counters filled with C${\mathrm{H}}_4$. The size distribution of ionizing events was determined. Coincidences between neutron counts and shower counts were observed, suggesting a connection between the neutrons and the soft component. Estimates are given of the rates of production in various substances, these being of the order of ${10}^{-3\mathrm{}}$ to ${10}^{-4\mathrm{}}$ per gram per second on Mt. Evans.