linear accelerator
noun Physics.
an accelerator in which particles are propelled in straight paths by the use of alternating electric voltages that are timed in such a way that the particles receive increasing increments of energy.
Also called
linac.
Origin of linear accelerator
First recorded in 1930–35
Words nearby linear accelerator
lineage,
lineal,
lineament,
linear,
linear a,
linear accelerator,
linear algebra,
linear atrophy,
linear b,
linear collider,
linear combination
British Dictionary definitions for linear accelerator
linear accelerator
noun
an accelerator in which charged particles are accelerated along a linear path by potential differences applied to a number of electrodes along their path
Sometimes shortened to: linac
Medical definitions for linear accelerator
linear accelerator
n.
An electron, a proton, or a heavy-ion accelerator in which the paths of the particles accelerated are essentially straight lines rather than circles or spirals.
A device that produces high energy photons (x-rays) on charged particles for use in radiation therapy.
Scientific definitions for linear accelerator
linear accelerator
A type of particle accelerator that accelerates charged subatomic particles, such as protons and electrons, in a straight line by means of alternating negative and positive impulses from electric fields. Linear accelerators were largely supplanted by cyclotrons and other architectures that require less path length to achieve the same or higher particle velocities. See Note at particle accelerator.