Muon component of EAS with energies above 10 17 eV

Abstract

Experimental data on muons (with threshold energy of 1 GeV) in extensive air showers (EAS) obtained at the Yakutsk EAS array from 1974 to 1992 are presented. Periods of reliable detector operation have been selected. Muon detector readings near the threshold have been carefully taken into account. Mean lateral distribution functions (LDF) of muons in the energy range of 10 17–5 × 10 19 eV and the zenith angle range of 0–60 ° have been obtained. The dependence of LDF on E 0 and θ at energies above 5 × 10 18 eV is shown to be considerably different in comparison with the region of lower energies.