Abstract
A very large number of particles of cosmic origin cross the planet every second. Most of them rarely interact with matter, and their passage is not perceived except by researchers of particle physics. Cosmic rays are a type of these particles, of extraterrestrial origin, that can be studied with the help of detectors. In this work, we present a study on the ways in which cosmic rays interact during their propagation to Earth, leading to an accessible energy limit for detectors in the ground. Using only Electromagnetism and Special Relativity knowledge, we seek to explain this mechanism to students who have an interest in the field, but who have not yet studied in particle physics. Our objective is to present a didactic and accessible material for these interested parties.
Keywords:
GZK cutoff; electromagnetism; particle physics
