Particle accelerators

Definition

Particle accelerators are devices that use electromagnetic fields to propel charged particles to high speeds and contain them in well-defined beams. They are essential for studying nuclear reactions, transmutations, and the properties of atomic nuclei.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Particle accelerators can induce artificial transmutation by bombarding atomic nuclei with high-energy particles.
2. They play a crucial role in producing medical isotopes used in diagnostic imaging and cancer treatment.
3. Two main types of particle accelerators are linear accelerators (linacs) and circular accelerators (cyclotrons and synchrotrons).
4. Accelerated particles can reach speeds close to the speed of light, making it possible to study subatomic particle interactions.
5. Large particle accelerators like the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) have been instrumental in discovering fundamental particles such as the Higgs boson.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of a particle accelerator?
• Name two types of particle accelerators and describe their differences.
• How do particle accelerators contribute to medical science?

Related terms

Transmutation:

The process of changing one element into another through nuclear reactions.

Nuclear Energy: Energy released during nuclear fission or fusion, especially when used to generate electricity.

Isotopes:

\text{Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons and hence different atomic masses.}