electron multiplier

noun Electronics.

a vacuum tube containing a number of dynodes that serve to amplify the flow of electrons from the cathode by means of secondary emission.

Origin of electron multiplier

First recorded in 1935–40

Words nearby electron multiplier

electron gun, electron hole, electron lens, electron micrograph, electron microscope, electron multiplier, electron neutrino, electron optics, electron pair, electron paramagnetic resonance, electron probe microanalysis

British Dictionary definitions for electron multiplier

electron multiplier

noun

physics a device for amplifying and measuring a flux of electrons. Each electron hits an anode surface and releases secondary electrons that are accelerated to a second surface; after several such stages a measurable pulse of current is obtained

Scientific definitions for electron multiplier

electron multiplier

An electrical component in which a single electron can create a large current flow. Electron multipliers are used in photomultipliers, particle detectors, and electron microscopes.♦ In tube electron multipliers, electrons released from a cathode collide with a dynode or anode, causing release of more electrons through secondary emission; this process is generally repeated through a number of stages to achieve great amplification of current. Electron multipliers are also called electron amplifiers.