Estimation of depth of maximum by relative muon content in air showers with energy greater than 5 EeV measured by the Yakutsk array

Abstract

Characteristics of muons with a threshold ℎ ≥ 1 GeV based on the air showers data in Yakutsk array were analyzed. Quantitative estimation of muons at different distance from the shower axis and the ratio of muon and charged particles at a distance of 600 m are obtained. An empirical relationship between the fraction of muons and longitudinal development -the depth of maximum development max is found. Calculations of the muon fraction are performed using the QGSjetII-04 for different primary nuclei, and compared with experiment. Mass composition of primary particles induced air showers of highest energies is estimated from the muon component.