# Mean transverse momentum as a mass composition estimator of cosmic rays

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a new statistical parameter based on mean transverse momentum to estimate the mass composition of cosmic rays using only a simple surface array, simplifying previous methods that required multiple measurements.

## Contribution

A novel parameter utilizing mean transverse momentum is proposed for cosmic ray mass composition analysis without the need for muon detectors.

## Key findings

- The new parameter effectively estimates cosmic ray mass composition.
- It simplifies experimental setup by eliminating the need for multiple measurements.
- Potential for broader application in surface array experiments.

## Abstract

Determination of mass composition of high energy cosmic rays is one of the greatest challenge in modern astrophysics. All of previous methods for finding the mass composition of primary cosmic rays in a surface array at least require two independent measurements (e.g. muon and electron components) of extensive air showers (EAS). Here a new statistical parameter is introduced which can be used to determine the mass composition of vertical downward cosmic rays in a simple surface array. The most interesting thing about the new parameter is that it does not need two independent measurements and can be used in a simple surface array which does not have muon detectors.