Linear accelerator

Definition

A linear accelerator, or linac, is a device that uses electromagnetic fields to accelerate charged particles to high speeds along a straight path. It is commonly used in particle physics experiments and medical applications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Linear accelerators use radiofrequency electromagnetic waves to accelerate particles.
2. Linacs can produce high-energy particles for collision experiments, aiding in the discovery of new particles.
3. They are essential components in creating matter from energy as described by Einstein's equation $E=mc^2$.
4. Linacs are also used in radiation therapy for treating cancer by targeting tumors with precise radiation beams.
5. The length of a linac is directly proportional to the energy it can impart to particles.

Review Questions

• What principle do linear accelerators use to accelerate charged particles?
• How does the length of a linear accelerator affect its performance?
• Name one medical application of linear accelerators.

Related terms

Cyclotron:

A type of particle accelerator that uses a magnetic field and a spiral path to accelerate particles.

$E=mc^2$:

Einstein's mass-energy equivalence formula stating that energy ($E$) equals mass ($m$) times the speed of light squared ($c^2$).

Synchrotron:

An advanced type of circular accelerator where the magnetic field strength increases with particle speed to keep them on a constant path radius.