Definition

A device that accelerates electrons to very high speeds using a changing magnetic field.

Example

The researchers used a betatron to conduct experiments in particle physics.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a betatron?

Yeah, I think it's some kind of particle accelerator, right?

Exactly! It accelerates electrons using a magnetic field.

That's pretty cool. I didn't know it could reach such high energies.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Betatron is formed from "beta" (from the Greek letter β, representing the second letter of the Greek alphabet) and "tron" (from the Greek "tron", meaning a device or instrument). The word refers to a device that accelerates electrons, where "beta" signifies the type of particle being accelerated.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek letter 'beta' representing a specific type of particle, and 'tron' meaning a device — together they describe a device that accelerates beta particles.

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