magnetron

American  

[mag-ni-tron] / ˈmæg nɪˌtrɒn /

noun

Electronics.

1. 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.

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magnetron British  

/ ˈmæɡnɪˌtrɒn /

noun

1. an electronic valve with two coaxial electrodes used with an applied magnetic field to generate high-power microwave oscillations, esp for use in radar

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magnetron Scientific  

/ măg′nĭ-trŏn′ /

1. 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.

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Etymology

Origin of magnetron

First recorded in 1920–25; magne(to)- + -tron

Example Sentences

Using magnetron sputtering, they deposited atomic copper in a solventless process, allowing intimate contact between the semiconductor and metal atoms.

From Science Daily • Mar. 25, 2024

Through a process called magnetron sputtering, it is possible to coat the substrate with selected elements.

From Science Daily • Feb. 29, 2024

Dr. Ashkin worked at a Columbia University laboratory during World War II, developing a magnetron — a vacuum tube that generates microwaves — as part of an Army radar program.

From Washington Post • Sep. 28, 2020

But eventually, the researchers found that the magnetron trap was better suited to the electron work.

From Nature • May 16, 2017

It involved an invention known as the cavity magnetron, a source of high-powered microwaves.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik