Collider Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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collider
[kəˈlaɪdər ]
Definitions
particle physics
A collider is a type of particle accelerator that brings two beams of particles to collide with each other at high speeds.
Examples of usage
- The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is the world's largest and most powerful particle collider.
- Scientists use colliders to study the fundamental particles and forces that make up the universe.
general
A collider can also refer to a device or machine that causes things to collide with each other.
Examples of usage
- The airbag in a car acts as a collider by cushioning the impact during a collision.
- In a chemistry lab, a collider may be used to mix different substances together.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- The Large Hadron Collider (LHC), located at CERN in Switzerland, is the world's largest and most powerful particle collider.
- Colliders have been key in discovering fundamental particles, like the Higgs boson, often referred to as 'the God particle.'
- Particles in colliders are accelerated to nearly the speed of light, enabling scientists to observe phenomena not observable in everyday conditions.
Technology
- Besides the LHC, there are several other notable colliders around the world, including Fermilab’s Tevatron and the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC).
- The technology developed for colliders has also contributed to advancements in medical imaging and cancer treatment techniques.
Cultural Impact
- Movies and documentaries often depict scientists working on colliders, highlighting the drama involved in discovering new sciences.
- The work done at colliders has inspired many children and young adults to pursue careers in science and engineering.
History
- The first collider, the synchrotron, was invented in the 1940s and laid the groundwork for future particle accelerators.
- During the Cold War, nations raced to develop advanced colliders to understand fundamental physics, reflecting competitive scientific advancement.
Origin of 'collider'
Main points about word origin
- The term originates from the Latin word 'collidere,' meaning to collide or crash.
- The modern use of 'collide' in physics became prominent in the mid-20th century with the rise of particle physics.
The term 'collider' originated in the field of particle physics to describe a type of particle accelerator. The concept of colliding particles to study their interactions dates back to the early 20th century. Over the years, colliders have played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of the fundamental building blocks of the universe. In a broader sense, the term 'collider' has been adapted to describe any device or machine that causes objects to collide with each other for various purposes.