Dictionary.com
definitions

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.

RELATED CONTENT

Origin Story: Why We Call Them “Emmys”Many viewers know the names and faces of the actors and actresses that walk the red carpet at the Emmy Awards, but few are familiar with the story behind the true star of the show: Emmy. Where does this popular awards show get its name? What are the Emmys named for? The word Emmy refers to the statuette that’s handed out during the awards ceremony. …
READ MORE
genethliacRead more in this article about some frequently asked questions and fun facts related to our definitions.
READ MORE

Nearby words

  1. electron gun,
  2. electron hole,
  3. electron lens,
  4. electron micrograph,
  5. electron microscope,
  6. electron neutrino,
  7. electron optics,
  8. electron pair,
  9. electron paramagnetic resonance,
  10. electron probe microanalysis

Origin of electron multiplier

First recorded in 1935–40
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
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
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Science 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.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.