Abstract

The Greisen–Zatsepin–Kuzmin (GZK) limit sets an upper energy boundary
for cosmic rays originating from distant sources, determined by their interaction with
cosmic microwave background radiation. The limit stands at approximately 5×1019
eV, but accurately simulating the propagation of ultra high energy cosmic rays over
long distances necessitates detailed modeling of particle interactions and energy losses.
Monte Carlo methods offer a valuable numerical technique to simulate these intricate
processes. This study employs a Monte Carlo approach to investigate the propagation
of ultra high energy cosmic rays and the resulting GZK cutoff. Energy loss mechanisms
are simulated at each step, tracking a significant number of cosmic rays to build an
energy spectrum. The results confirm a pronounced steepening of the spectrum around
6×1019 eV, aligning with the anticipated GZK cutoff. This technique enables a detailed
validation of the GZK limit through numerical modeling, demonstrating its power by
comparing the predicted spectrum with recent experimental data from ultra high energy
detectors like the Pierre Auger Observatory. Monte Carlo methods thus exemplify their
efficacy in simulating fundamental astrophysical processes at high energies.

Information

Item Type:	Conference
Divisions:	» Faculty of Science and Technology
ePrint ID:	5369
Date Deposited:	2025-04-11
Further Information:	Google Scholar
URI:	https://www.univ-soukahras.dz/en/publication/article/5369

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