Astrophysicists MOST often detect high-energy cosmic rays by
A) positioning particle detectors in space.
B) observing showers of lower energy particles and photons generated when the primary cosmic ray interacts with matter in Earth's atmosphere.
C) observing their interactions with large tanks of material deep underground.
D) reflecting them at grazing incidence off custom-designed mirrors.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

High-energy cosmic rays are most often detected indirectly by observing the showers of lower energy particles and photons they generate when they interact with matter in Earth's atmosphere. This method allows scientists to study the properties of the primary cosmic rays that are otherwise difficult to detect directly.

Astrophysicists MOST Often Detect High-Energy Cosmic Rays by