Are the Formulae for the Absorption of High Energy Radiations Valid?

Abstract

In this paper we consider the discrepancies between theoretical prediction and experiment for the absorption of cosmic-ray electrons and gamma-rays. By applying a strict criterion for the validity of classical electron theory, it is possible to derive new formulae for impact and radiative energy losses of high energy electrons, which may be regarded as theoretical lower limits for these quantities, and which are in far better agreement with experiment than the formulae given by an uncritical application of quantum mechanics to these problems. These limitations on classical electron theory are consistent with those given by possible unitary classical field theories, but are more incisive than those given by the unitary theory of Born.