ion acceleration

Ion acceleration involves increasing the speed of charged particles, called ions, using electric or magnetic fields. Think of it like pushing a swing: the fields exert a force on the ions, speeding them up. This process is used in various applications, such as in particle accelerators for scientific research, medical treatments like cancer therapy, and in space propulsion systems. By controlling the fields, scientists can direct and energize ions to desired speeds, enabling precise experimentation and practical uses.