magnetron
[ mag-ni-tron ]
/ ˈmæg nɪˌtrɒn /
noun Electronics.
a two-element vacuum tube in which the flow of electrons is under the influence of an external magnetic field, used to generate extremely short radio waves.
Origin of magnetron
First recorded in 1920–25;
magne(to)- +
-tron
Words nearby magnetron
British Dictionary definitions for magnetron
magnetron
/ (ˈmæɡnɪˌtrɒn) /
noun
an electronic valve with two coaxial electrodes used with an applied magnetic field to generate high-power microwave oscillations, esp for use in radar
Word Origin for magnetron
C20: from
magnet +
electron
Scientific definitions for magnetron
magnetron
[ măg′nĭ-trŏn′ ]
An electron tube that produces coherent microwave radiation. Magnetrons are diodes in which the electrons traveling to the anode are set in spiraling paths by a magnetic field created by permanent magnets. The circular component of the electrons' motion causes microwave-frequency oscillations in the voltage induced in resonating cavities built into the anode, which is connected to an antenna that emits the microwaves. Magnetrons are used in radar and in microwave ovens.