Chapter 16, Problem 2RQ

To determine

The reason for more intense cosmic radiation in high-altitude cities.

Answer to Problem 2RQ

A thin layer of atmosphere is the reason for more intense cosmic radiation in high-altitude cities

Explanation of Solution

The major part of the radiation observed at the Earth's surface is the natural background cosmic radiation originating from the Earth's interior, the sun and other cosmic bodies in the space. Even the purest air received is a product of collisions of cosmic rays in the atmosphere.

The atmosphere is denser near the Earth's surface compared to the high altitudes, so the intensity of cosmic radiation near the Earth's surface remains low. But at high altitudes, the layer of atmosphere is thin compared to the surface, so the intensity of the cosmic radiation will have a higher value.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the thin layer of atmosphere is the reason for more intense cosmic radiation in high-altitude cities.