Interactions of high-energy (E>5 x 10/sup 19/ eV) photons in the Earth's magnetic field

Journal Article · Sun Nov 01 00:00:00 EST 1981 · Phys. Rev. D; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.24.2536· OSTI ID:6115672

McBreen, B; Lambert, C J

Cosmic-ray photons of energy >5 x 10/sup 19/ eV will pair produce in the Earth's magnetic field. The electrons radiate by quantum synchrotron radiation; the produced photons may in turn pair produce and continue the cascade. This electromagnetic cascade interacts with the Earth's atmosphere and produces an extensive air shower. Some implications for determining the photon contribution to the highest-energy cosmic rays are discussed.

• Research Organization: Physics Department, University College, Dublin, Ireland
• OSTI ID: 6115672
• Journal Information: Phys. Rev. D; (United States), Vol. 24:9
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
COSMIC PHOTONS
PAIR PRODUCTION
CASCADE SHOWERS
EXTENSIVE AIR SHOWERS
GAMMA CASCADES
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD
COSMIC RADIATION
COSMIC SHOWERS
ELEMENTARY PARTICLES
INTERACTIONS
IONIZING RADIATIONS
MAGNETIC FIELDS
MASSLESS PARTICLES
NUCLEAR CASCADES
PHOTONS
RADIATIONS
SECONDARY COSMIC RADIATION
SHOWERS
640101* - Astrophysics & Cosmology- Cosmic Radiation