'colliding-beam machine' definitions:

Definition of 'colliding-beam machine'

From: GCIDE
  • colliding-beam machine \colliding-beam machine\ n. (Physics) a particle accelerator in which two separate beams of particles (usually of opposite charge) are circulated in opposite directions and directed so as to collide head on; -- called also colliding-beam accelerator and collider.
  • Note: This technique allows the production of collisions of higher energy than would be possible with a single beam produced by the same device.
  • Syn: particle collider; colliding-beam accelerator; collider. [WordNet 1.5 +PJC]