accelerator physics

Accelerator physics studies how charged particles, like electrons or protons, are sped up to very high energies using electromagnetic fields. These particles travel through specialized structures called accelerators, where electric fields give them energy and magnetic fields steer or focus their paths. This field enables scientists to probe matter at the smallest scales, develop medical treatments such as cancer radiation therapy, and produce advanced materials or energy sources. Fundamental to the discipline is understanding how to efficiently accelerate particles while controlling their trajectories, ensuring safety and precision in experiments and applications.