  The lateral distribution of particles in extensive air showers from cosmic
rays with energy above $10^{17}$ eV registered at the Yakutsk complex array was
analyzed. Experimentally measured particle densities were compared to the
predictions obtained within frameworks of three ultra-high energy hadron
interaction models. The cosmic ray mass composition estimated by the readings
of surface-based and underground detectors of the array is consistent with
results based on the Cherenkov light lateral distribution data. A comparison
was made with the results of direct measurement of the muon component performed
at the Pierre Auger Observatory. It is demonstrated that the densities of muon
flux measured at Yakutsk array are consistent with results of fluorescent light
measurements and disagree with results on muons obtained at the Auger array.
