cyclotron

[ sahy-kluh-tron, sik-luh- ]
/ ˈsaɪ kləˌtrɒn, ˈsɪk lə- /

noun Physics.

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

Origin of cyclotron

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

Example sentences from the Web for cyclotron

British Dictionary definitions for cyclotron

cyclotron
/ (ˈsaɪkləˌtrɒn) /

noun

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

Scientific definitions for cyclotron

cyclotron
[ sīklə-trŏn′ ]

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. Compare linear accelerator. See also synchrocyclotron. See Note at particle accelerator.

Cultural definitions for cyclotron

cyclotron
[ (seye-kluh-tron) ]

The first kind of particle accelerator built.

notes for cyclotron

Cyclotrons are now used for special research projects.