A Note on the Development of the Nucleon Component of the Cosmic Radiation in Air When Ionization Losses Are Accounted For

Abstract

The development of the nucleon component of the cosmic radiation in air is considered in terms of a model previously discussed by Messel and Ritson, with the inclusion of ionization losses. The results obtained are compared with experiment, and good qualitative agreement is found. The good qualitative agreement found strongly suggests that the Heitler-Jánossy assumptions regarding the nucleon-nucleon collision cross section are valid. But from a quantitative standpoint it appears that a number of points require revision. There is little doubt that the development of the nucleonic component can in fact be well accounted for in in terms of a cascade process. Results are presented in graphic form for neutrons, protons, neutrons plus protons and their ratio.