Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated August 2025
Definition
A particle accelerator is a scientific instrument used to accelerate charged particles, such as protons or electrons, to high speeds. It uses electric fields and magnetic fields to propel particles and increase their energy.