Composition of cosmic rays
The composition of cosmic rays can be divided into Primary cosmic rays (before interacting with Earth's atmosphere) and Secondary cosmic rays (produced during interactions with Earth's atmosphere). Image source: https://www.facebook.com/cosmicparticles/ Here's a detailed breakdown : 1. Primary Cosmic Rays Primary cosmic rays originate from outside Earth's atmosphere and consist mainly of high-energy particles. Their composition includes: a. Atomic Nuclei (99% of primary cosmic rays): Protons (Hydrogen nuclei): ~90% of primary cosmic rays are protons. Alpha Particles (Helium nuclei): ~9% are alpha particles Heavier Nuclei: ~1% are heavier atomic nuclei, such as: Carbon (C) Oxygen (O) Iron (Fe) These heavier elements are thought to originate from supernovae and other astrophysical sources. b. Electrons (and Positrons): A small fraction (~1%) consists of high-energy electrons. Positrons, the antimatter counterpart of electrons, are also detected in smaller quantiti...
