How does an atom-smashing particle accelerator work? - Don Lincoln
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An atom smasher, or particle accelerator, collides atomic nuclei together at extremely high energies, using engineering that exploits incredibly cold temperatures, very low air pressure, and hyperbolically fast speeds. Don Lincoln explains how scientists harness the power of both electric and magnetic fields to smash atoms, eventually leading to major discoveries about the matter in our universe.
You’ve heard that electric fields are required to increase the speed of subatomic particles, yet most of a circular accelerator is surrounded by magnets. Why do physicists not simply put electric fields around the entire ring?
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Meet The Creators
- Animator Andrew Hunter, Darren Tilley
- Educator Don Lincoln
- Producer James LaPlante
- Narrator Don Lincoln
