MUM: Flexible precise Monte Carlo algorithm for muon propagation through thick layers of matter

We present a new Monte Carlo muon propagation algorithm MUM (muons+medium) which possesses some advantages over analogous algorithms presently in use. The most important features of this algorithm are described. The results on the test for the accuracy of the treatment of the muon energy loss with MUM are presented and analyzed. It is evaluated to be of 2×10^-3 or better, depending upon simulation parameters. The contributions of different simplifications, which are applied at Monte Carlo muon transportation to the resulting error, are considered and ranked. It is shown that when simulating muon propagation through a medium it is quite enough to account only for fluctuations in radiative energy loss with the fraction of energy lost being as large as $>0.05--0.1.$ Selected results obtained with MUM are given and compared with ones from other algorithms.