Scaling factors for the rates of production of cosmogenic nuclides for geometric shielding and attenuation at depth on sloped surfaces

The decrease in rates of production of cosmogenic nuclides occurs because of shielding of cosmic rays by mountains, sloped surfaces, and local rock formations that block them. When a large part of the sky is blocked, this correction is large and requires detailed model calculations. This paper considers three geometries: a rectangular obstruction, a triangular obstruction, and a sloped surface. Other geometries can be considered as a combination of these. The results are presented in terms of formulas and graphs so that the reader can easily apply them to common field situations. Any use of cosmogenic nuclides in the study of geomorphic processes or forms must consider factors that introduce variations in the production of nuclides. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.