Mass discrimination using the inferred depth of maximum through the particle densities measured at observation level

Abstract

In the present work, the shower depth of maximum (X max e) and (X max μ) (the depth at which the number of muons of shower get their maximum) has been calculated from the particles densities at the observation level. It is noteworthy that these are both mass sensitive parameters. Based on CORSIKA simulations a relationship between slope of the lateral distribution functions (η) of electrons and muons (at the observation level) and their X max have been investigated. An accurate linear relationship between them is found. The higher the energy, the deeper the X max and the steeper the distribution function is. Simulations have been done for heavy and light primaries in the energy range of 1014–1015 eV. Better ability for mass discrimination of η of the muons, due to less deflection of muons with the atmosphere is demonstrated. This method has got better results for low energies. Therefore a mass sensitive parameter, with good potential for mass discriminating between light and heavy primaries is presented.