Cyclotron
| Formula / Notation | f = qB/(2πm) |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Particle accelerator, circular accelerator, medical cyclotron |
What is Cyclotron?
A cyclotron is a type of circular particle accelerator in which charged particles are accelerated using alternating electric fields and kept on a spiral path by a static magnetic field. As particles gain energy, the radius of their circular path increases. Cyclotrons are used to produce radioactive isotopes for medical imaging (PET scans) and to study nuclear reactions.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Particle accelerator, circular accelerator, medical cyclotron
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A cyclotron is a type of circular particle accelerator in which charged particles are accelerated using alternating electric fields and kept on a spiral path by a static magnetic field. As particles gain energy, the radius of their circular path increases. Cyclotrons are used to produce radioactive isotopes for medical imaging (PET scans) and to study nuclear reactions.
Cyclotrons are used to produce radioisotopes for medical imaging (¹⁸F for PET, ¹¹C, ¹³N, ¹⁵O), for cancer therapy (proton therapy cyclotrons), and in nuclear physics research. Hospital-based cyclotrons produce short-lived PET tracers on-site.
Cyclotrons produce intense ionising radiation during operation and activate surrounding materials with neutrons and secondary particles. Operations require thick concrete/water shielding, interlocked access systems, radiation monitoring, and trained radiation protection personnel.
The formula or notation for Cyclotron is: f = qB/(2πm)