A linear particle accelerator, also known as a linac, is a scientific instrument or device used in the field of particle physics to accelerate subatomic particles, such as protons, electrons, or ions, to high energies for experimental purposes. It functions by applying alternating electric fields that accelerate the particles in a straight line within a cylindrical tube known as the accelerator cavity.
The process starts with the source of particles, which are injected into the linac. They then enter the accelerator cavity, where they are energy boosted by the electric fields in a series of segments. These segments are powered by radio frequency generators that provide the necessary electrical potential to accelerate the particles. The particles are guided through the accelerator cavity by a series of electromagnetic focusing magnets, helping to maintain a stable particle trajectory.
As the particles traverse the linac, they repeatedly gain energy with each passage through an accelerator cavity segment. The final energy attained by the particles is directly proportional to the length of the accelerator and the number of acceleration segments.
Linear particle accelerators are often used to study the fundamental properties of subatomic particles and their interactions. They enable scientists to explore the behavior and constituents of matter at extremely high energies, recreating conditions similar to those that existed shortly after the Big Bang. Additionally, linacs have numerous applications in industry, medicine, and research, including cancer treatment, materials testing, and radioisotope production.
