Alternative interpretation of cosmic ray investigations above the knee

TL;DR

This paper explores an alternative nuclear physical approach to interpreting cosmic ray data above the knee, proposing that changes in interaction models, rather than primary spectrum, explain observed EAS characteristics.

Contribution

It introduces and discusses a nuclear physical interpretation of cosmic ray data above the knee, contrasting with the traditional cosmophysical approach.

Findings

Proposes changes in interaction models as explanation for EAS variations

Discusses experimental methods to validate the nuclear physical approach

Highlights differences between the two interpretative frameworks

Abstract

All information about primary cosmic rays above the knee has been obtained from results of EAS investigations. At that, two alternative approaches exist: cosmophysical and nuclear physical. In the frame of the first one, all changes in measured EAS characteristics are explained by the changes in energy spectrum and mass composition of primary cosmic rays. In this paper, the second approach is considered, in frame of which corresponding changes in EAS parameters are explained by changes of interaction model above the knee. Some experimental possibilities of proof of the correctness of the nuclear physical approach are considered.