Primary cosmic-ray component in superhigh energy region

Abstract

Data on the size of extensive air showers at sea level show a notable irregularity in the integral spectrum in the region of N approximates 5 x 10/ sup 5/. Results of calculations of showersize spectra at sea level are compared with the data, and an explanation of the irregularity is offered in terms of changes in the energy spectrum and the composition of primary cosmic rays. Experimental data on mu -meson fluxes in showers are compared with theoretical calculations. An upper limit for the mean free path of the primary particle is determined. (A.G.W.)