Accelerator
A device that increases the speed and energy of beams of charged particles. It uses electric fields to speed them up and magnets to steer and concentrate their paths. Accelerators find a wide range of applications, from scientific research to various societal and industrial uses.
Electromagnetic Radiation
A type of energy in the form of electric and magnetic waves. Examples are light, x-rays, gamma rays.
Free-Electron Laser
A source of monochromatic synchrotron radiation known for producing intensely bright and short pulses of radiation. What sets FELs apart from traditional lasers is the fact that they use relativistic electrons, which means these electrons move at velocities comparable to the speed of light c).
Linac (linear accelerator)
A particle accelerator that propels charged particles along a straight path by using alternating electric fields.
Particle
A tiny piece of matter, that we cannot see with our eyes. Everything on Earth is made up of these particles. An elementary particle is a fundamental constituent of matter (of which all the other particles are made)
Neutron
A subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom. Neutrons are electrically neutral, meaning they have no electrical charge.
Neutron scattering
A scientific technique that involves using neutrons to study the structure and properties of materials at the atomic and molecular levels. Neutrons, owing to their neutral charge and their ability to interact with materials without causing substantial disruption when they move slowly, are exceptionally useful for investigating the structure and internal motion of materials.
Narrative Scenario (in education)
A structured/semi-structured educational tool that presents students with a relatable story or situation designed to help them grasp and apply complex concepts, theories, or problem-solving skills. Narrative scenarios often engage learners in a practical and real-world context, promoting active learning and critical thinking as they navigate through the scenario's challenges and decisions.
Socio-Scientific Issue
A complex, real-world problem/topic with scientific and societal dimensions. These issues require not only scientific knowledge and expertise but also consideration of ethical, social, political, and economic factors. In science education, they can be used to engage students in critical thinking and discussions about the intersection of science and society.
Spallation
Spallation is a type of nuclear reaction in which a high-energy photon or particle collides with a nucleus, resulting in the ejection of smaller nuclear fragments.
Superconductor
An element, or compound that can conduct electricity without resistance below a certain “critical temperature”. At this “critical temperature”, electrons can move freely through the material, enabling a superconductor to sustain an electric current indefinitely without energy loss.
Synchrotron
A particle accelerator in which magnetic fields bend the particles' trajectories, and they gain energy as they accelerate within the circular path.