cyclotron

noun

cy·​clo·​tron ˈsī-klə-ˌträn How to pronounce cyclotron (audio)
: an accelerator in which charged particles (such as protons, deuterons, or ions) are propelled by an alternating electric field in a constant magnetic field

Examples of cyclotron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Potential solutions that could address this critical issue include developing new production methods such as through cyclotrons, as well as investing in domestic production of Molybdenum-99 in America. Omer Awan, Forbes, 24 Oct. 2024 Once the isotopes were prepared and the cyclotron was running, the process became a waiting game. Max Springer, Scientific American, 24 July 2024 The resulting ions shoot down a pipeline into the cyclotron, which sweeps the ions around in a spiral, accelerating the beam. Stephanie Pappas, Scientific American, 14 May 2024 And waves of protons, called ion cyclotron waves, snake around the sun's magnetic field, heating and accelerating the solar wind. Ian Graber-Stiehl, Discover Magazine, 10 Aug. 2018 See all Example Sentences for cyclotron 

Word History

Etymology

cycl- + -tron; from the circular movement of the particles

First Known Use

1935, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cyclotron was in 1935

Dictionary Entries Near cyclotron

Cite this Entry

“Cyclotron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cyclotron. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

cyclotron

noun
cy·​clo·​tron ˈsī-klə-ˌträn How to pronounce cyclotron (audio)
: a device in which charged particles are propelled to high speeds by an alternating electric field in a constant magnetic field

Medical Definition

cyclotron

noun
cy·​clo·​tron ˈsī-klə-ˌträn How to pronounce cyclotron (audio)
: an accelerator in which charged particles (as protons, deuterons, or ions) are propelled by an alternating electric field in a constant magnetic field

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