Electromagnetic component of1014–1016-eV air showers

Detailed Monte Carlo simulations of the electromagnetic component of extensive air showers generated by ${10}^{14}$–${10}^{16}$-eV protons and iron nuclei have been carried out. The longitudinal development and lateral distribution of the electron component was approximated with parametrized analytical formulas, and compared for proton- and iron-initiated extensive air showers.