linear accelerator

noun

Physics.

1. 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.

linear accelerator

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: linac. an accelerator in which charged particles are accelerated along a linear path by potential differences applied to a number of electrodes along their path

linear accelerator

1. 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.

2. See Note at particle accelerator

Word History and Origins

Origin of linear accelerator¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

It’s not your local vet that has a $2 million linear accelerator that aims radiation at cancer tumors with pinpoint accuracy.

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In an XFEL, a linear accelerator, or linac, shoots electrons through magnets that shake the particles sideways and make them emit x-rays.

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In a free electron laser, a linear accelerator, or linac, shoots a beam of high-energy electrons into a string of complex magnets called undulators.

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The original plan for the SNS called for a conventional linear accelerator made of copper accelerating cavities.

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The $730 million linear accelerator can generate beams of any atomic nucleus from hydrogen to uranium.

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Related Words

• accelerator