1. A device that accelerates charged particles (such as protons or electrons) in a spiral path by means of a strong magnetic field and an alternating electric field, used in nuclear physics research and medical applications.
Usage: technical; physics

Examples

• The cyclotron was invented by Ernest Lawrence in 1930 and revolutionized nuclear physics research.
• Scientists use a cyclotron to accelerate particles to very high speeds for collision experiments.
• Modern hospitals employ cyclotrons to produce radioactive isotopes for medical imaging and cancer treatment.
• The magnetic field in a cyclotron keeps the charged particles moving in a circular path.
• Cyclotrons are more compact than linear accelerators for certain applications.