1. A device used to separate isotopes of uranium by ionizing atoms and deflecting them through a magnetic field; used historically in nuclear weapons production.
Usage: technical; historical; physics

Examples

• The calutron was developed during the Manhattan Project to enrich uranium-235.
• Scientists used calutrons to separate isotopes at Oak Ridge during World War II.
• The calutron's magnetic field allowed researchers to isolate fissile material.
• Multiple calutrons were operated in parallel to increase uranium enrichment efficiency.