Detection of gamma-ray bursts in the 1 GeV-l TeV energy range by ground-based experiments

Ground-based extensive air shower arrays can observe Gamma Ray Bursts in the I GeV-l TeV energy range using the "single particle" technique. The sensitivity to detect a GRB as a function of the burst parameters and the detector characteristics are discussed. The rate of possible observations is evaluated, making reasonable assumptions on the high energy emission, the absorption of gamma-rays in the intergalactic space, the distribution of the sources in the universe and the bursts luminosity function. We show that a large area detector located at high mountain altitude has good prospects for positive detections, providing useful information on the high energy component of GRBs.