New precision in cosmic ray measurements; Yielding extension of spectrum and indications of bands

Abstract

Method of measurement of capacities of the order of one cm. — A method is described which leads to greatly increased precision in the measurement of capacities of the order of one electrostatic unit. More penetrating cosmic rays than we have previously found are indicated by a new absorption curve obtained in Gem Lake (9080 ft.) and Lake Arrowhead (5125 ft.) with much greater precision than hitherto possible. Cosmic-ray spectrum. — The new curve affords definite evidence for the existence of bands in the spectrum of cosmic rays. The measurements indicate that the cosmic rays consist chiefly of two bands about three octaves apart of mean absorption coefficients 0.35 and 0.04 to 0.05 per meter of water. The total energy of cosmic rays at the top of the atmosphere is found to be very nearly one-tenth that due to starlight and heat as computed from Seares' data.