Fluctuations of muon and electron numbers in EAS

Abstract

Calculations have been made of the fluctuations in muon and electron numbers expected in air showers using different models of high-energy interactions and alternative assumptions about the mass composition of the primary particles. Comparison is made with the results of experiment, and it is concluded that the evidence concerning the suggested change in the mass composition of the primaries at energies above 1016 eV is inconclusive. Other consequences of fluctuations, in particular those in the lateral distribution of muons, are examined, and it is shown that such fluctuations can have a marked effect on the interpretation of experimental data.