Calculated specific yield functions for neutron monitors

Abstract

Results of calculations to determine specific yield functions for IGY neutron monitors are reported for vertically incident cosmic-ray protons in the range of 1 < Pc < 6 GV. The Monte Carlo method is used to calculate secondary nucleon-flux intensities at atmospheric depths of 312, 680, and 1 000 g/cm2. Experimental data on neutron monitor response are employed to relate the calculated flux data to count rates, and hence to specific yields, at the corresponding depths. Comparison with empirical data for the specific yield function at sea level shows fair agreement for rigidities less than 3 GV, but calculated yields are considerably smaller than the empirical data at higher rigidities. Various possible explanations for the discrepancy are discussed. At this time, the most probable cause appears to be the assumption that vertically incident cosmic rays produce most of the counts registered by neutron monitors.