Synchrotron light source
A synchrotron is a usually toroidial electron accelerator that boosts the velocity of electrons, protons or ionized atoms (ions) to near the speed of light.
Operation
When accelerated an electron radiates electromagnetic energy. In a synchrotron this energy is used for a number of experimental purposes.
A synchrotron produces a wide range of electromagnetic radiation, and they are quite often constructed so that the predominant emission consists of x-rays.
Uses
Synchrotron light is an ideal tool for many types of research and also has industrial applications. Some practical uses include:
- Lithography for computer chips.
- Absorption / Scattering.
- High Pressure
- Protein crystallography.
- Spectroscopy.
Some of the advantages of synchrotron light that allow for these practical uses are:
- Short wavelength photons which can penetrate matter and interact with atoms.
- High concentration, tunability and polarization thus ensuring focusing accuracy for even the smallest of targets.