The Behavior of High Energy Electrons in the Cosmic Radiation

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The behavior of electrons and photons of high energy is discussed in relation to the production of large bursts of cosmic-ray ionization, or Hoffmann Stösse, and the occurrence of nuclear "vaporizations." It is shown that the electrons from the disintegration of mesotrons have an importance equal to that of the cascade electrons. The number and size-frequency distribution of large showers (of a hundred or more rays) from thin and thick pieces of lead at sea level, and the variation with elevation of such showers are well accounted for by the action of electrons and photons from these two sources. It is unnecessary to invoke the direct production of bursts by penetrating rays by means of an explosion process. The behavior of showers of a few rays is likewise well accounted for. However, difficulties are encountered in explaining: (a) the relative numbers of bursts from large thicknesses of iron and lead, and (b) the occurrence of showers, from the air, which have a large number of rays per unit area. (See note added in proof page 261.) The hypothesis is advanced that the showers of heavily ionizing particles, or nuclear vaporizations, are produced by electrons and photons in the same range of energy as those which produce the large bursts. The identification of showers of heavily ionizing particles with Hoffmann Stösse is shown to be untenable. A determination of the absolute number of neutrons in the cosmic radiation at sea level is shown to be consistent with the supposition that these neutrons are produced in the nuclear vaporization process.