The mass of cosmic rays above 1017 eV

Details The mass of cosmic rays above 1017 eV The mass of cosmic rays above 1017 eV

2005-12-15

arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0512408v1

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

4 pages, Proceedings of 29th International Cosmic Ray Conference (ICRC)2005, Pune, India

Scientific paper

Interpretation of the energy spectrum and arrival distribution of cosmic rays is complicated by lack of knowledge of the nature of the primaries. We review claims for the mass composition above 1017 eV where it can be determined only indirectly from air-shower observables. Difficulties in comparisons between data arise because, inevitably, a set of measurements is interpreted using the best model of hadronic interactions available at the time of analysis. We discuss the situation and conclude that the evidence for a proton-dominated mass composition, even at the highest energies, is unconvincing. However, it may be that there are consistent differences between mass measurements from optical techniques and those based upon other shower observables. We also find that iron nuclei of ultra high energy can probably escape from the galaxies that host GRBs, possible cosmic ray accelerators. The accelerators must lie nearby.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

The mass of cosmic rays above 1017 eV does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with The mass of cosmic rays above 1017 eV, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The mass of cosmic rays above 1017 eV will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-111449