collimator

[kuh-lim-i-ter]

collimator Definition

  • 1an optical device consisting of a tube containing a convex lens or curved mirror, used to produce a parallel beam of light or other radiation by making the rays parallel to the axis of the tube
  • 2a device that narrows a beam of particles or waves

Using collimator: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "collimator" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The collimator is used to align the laser beam.

  • Example

    The collimator is an essential component of the telescope.

  • Example

    The collimator is used in medical imaging to narrow the X-ray beam.

collimator Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for collimator

Phrases with collimator

  • a device used in nuclear medicine to image gamma rays emitted by radioactive isotopes

    Example

    The gamma camera collimator is used to focus the gamma rays onto the detector.

  • a device used in radiation therapy to shape the radiation beam to conform to the shape of the tumor

    Example

    The radiotherapy collimator is used to deliver high doses of radiation to the tumor while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue.

  • a device used to narrow the beam of particles or waves

    Example

    The beam collimator is used to reduce the spread of the particle beam in a particle accelerator.

Origins of collimator

from Latin 'collimare', meaning 'to aim'

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Summary: collimator in Brief

A collimator [kuh-lim-i-ter] is an optical or particle device that produces a parallel beam of light or other radiation. It consists of a tube containing a convex lens or curved mirror that makes the rays parallel to the axis of the tube. Collimators are used in various fields, such as astronomy, medical imaging, and particle physics. Examples include the gamma camera collimator, radiotherapy collimator, and beam collimator.