On the chemical composition of cosmic rays of highest energy
arXiv:1006.1781 · doi:10.1088/0954-3899/38/8/085201
Abstract
We present arguments aiming at reconciling apparently contradictory results concerning the chemical composition of cosmic rays of highest energy, coming recently from the Auger and HiRes collaborations. In particular, we argue that the energy dependence of the mean value and root mean square fluctuation of shower maxima distributions observed by the Auger experiment are not necessarily caused by the change of nuclear composition of primary cosmic rays. They could also be caused by the change of distribution of the first interaction point in the cascade. A new observable, in which this influence is strongly suppressed, is proposed and tested.
Version accepted by J.Phys. G (2011)
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- The Role of Structured Magnetic Fields on Constraining Properties of Transient Sources of Ultra-high-energy Cosmic Rays
- Update on tests of the Cen A neutron-emission model of highest energy cosmic rays
- Proton-proton cross-sections: the interplay between density and radius
- Implications of the UHECRs penetration depth measurements
- Signatures of New Physics from HBT Correlations in UHECRs
- The Puzzle of Muons in Extensive Air Showers