An Experimental Test of Schremp's Theory of Cosmic-Ray Fine Structure

Abstract

From a consideration of geomagnetic and absorptive effects upon the energy spectra of primary cosmic rays, Schremp some years ago inferred the existence of an anomalous directional intensity pattern in the sky, the analysis of which might be expected to yield detailed information concerning the identity of the primary cosmic rays, their energy spectra at infinity, and their interaction with absorbing matter. An east-west directional intensity survey has recently been carried out at Washington University, St. Louis, to test these predictions with apparatus of high angular resolution. In the curve of directional intensity vs. zenith angle $z$, the present results indicate the existence of symmetrical prominences at $z=\pm {20}^{\circ }$ and further suggest that other symmetrically disposed prominences may exist in the neighborhood of $z=\pm {10}^{\circ }$ and $z=\pm {40}^{\circ }$. This symmetry, in the light of the theory, carries implications concerning the character of the primary cosmic rays.