Do Particle Accelerators Experience Torque?

In summary, the particle stream in an accelerator imparts a vector force on the structure due to the magnetic field and internal stresses from the beams and magnets. However, the acceleration is accomplished by electric fields and the force follows Newton's 3rd law. As a result, the apparatus experiences an equal and opposing effect from the acceleration of particles.
  • #1
bacon555
3
0
In particular, ones that aren't linear, of course.

Does the particle stream or individual particle, whatever they're firing, impart some sort of vector force on the structure of the accelerator itself via the magnetic field, and into the magnets?
 
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  • #2
It must. I don't think the force would apply a torque though.
 
  • #3
In the LHC the acceleration is accomplished not by magnets but by electric fields, namely eight superconducting RF cavities with a field gradient of 5 MV/m.

Forces on the magnets arise from the two countercirculating beams but also from internal stresses due to the maximum magnetic field of 8 Tesla. The beam energy is 350 MJ, but the energy stored in the magnets is much greater, 11 GJ.
 
  • #4
So basically, no, because the field strength is higher than the angular momentum of the particle stream?
 
  • #5
I'm going to assume you're wondering if Newton's 3rd law applies (in this case torques only exist in equal and opposing pairs), and it does. Any acceleration of mass by a field will ultimately have an equal and opposing effect on the apparatus (and whatever the apparatus is attached to, such as the earth) that generated the field.
 
  • #6
That's exactly what I was wondering, thank you.
 

1. What is a particle accelerator?

A particle accelerator is a scientific instrument used to accelerate particles, such as protons or electrons, to very high speeds and energies. These accelerated particles are then used to study the fundamental building blocks of matter and the laws of physics.

2. How do particle accelerators work?

Particle accelerators use electromagnetic fields to accelerate particles. Usually, the particles are injected into a long, evacuated tube and then accelerated using a series of electric fields. The particles are then steered and focused using magnets until they reach the desired energy level.

3. Do particle accelerators experience torque?

Yes, particle accelerators do experience torque. This is because the particles being accelerated have mass and are therefore subject to the laws of motion, including the concept of torque. The magnets used to steer and focus the particles also experience torque as they interact with the moving particles.

4. How is torque managed in particle accelerators?

To manage torque in particle accelerators, engineers and scientists carefully design and engineer the magnets used to steer and focus the particles. The magnets must be able to withstand the forces and torques exerted by the moving particles while maintaining their precise alignment and strength. Advanced computer simulations and testing are also used to optimize the design and minimize any unwanted effects of torque.

5. Can torque affect the accuracy of particle accelerator experiments?

Yes, torque can potentially affect the accuracy of particle accelerator experiments. This is why it is important for scientists and engineers to carefully manage and minimize torque in the design and operation of particle accelerators. Any unwanted torque or forces on the particles could lead to imprecise results or damage to the equipment.

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