cyclotron

[ sahy-kluh-tron, sik-luh- ]

noun

, Physics.

1. an accelerator in which particles are propelled in spiral paths by the use of a constant magnetic field.

cyclotron

/ ˈsaɪkləˌtrɒn /

noun

1. a type of particle accelerator in which the particles spiral inside two D-shaped hollow metal electrodes placed facing each other under the effect of a strong vertical magnetic field, gaining energy by a high-frequency voltage applied between these electrodes

cyclotron

/ sī′klə-trŏn′ /

1. A type of particle accelerator that accelerates charged subatomic particles, such as protons and electrons, in an outwardly spiraling path, greatly increasing their energies. Cyclotrons are used to bring about high-speed particle collisions in order to study subatomic structures.
2. Compare linear acceleratorSee also synchrocyclotronSee Note at particle accelerator

cyclotron

1. The first kind of particle accelerator built.

Notes

Cyclotrons are now used for special research projects.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cyclotron¹

First recorded in 1930–35; cyclo- + -tron

Example Sentences

Whether Yuan himself or the prospect of access to a cyclotron had a greater influence on Wu's transfer decision remains open to debate!

From Scientific American

The magnetic field produced by a cyclotron accelerates particles to dizzying speeds.

From Scientific American

In classical physics, an electron at any position will start moving along a circular trajectory known as a cyclotron orbit, the radius of which depends on the particle’s kinetic energy.

From Nature

The cyclotron frequencies of the ions in those traps were measured, and the whole sequence was repeated many times.

From Nature

Like all elements first born in cyclotrons, technetium was radioactive.

From The New Yorker

Related Words

• accelerator