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LEP particle collider, CERN
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LEP particle collider, CERN
View of one of the acceleration sections at LEP, the Large Electron-Positron collider. Located at CERN, the European centre for particle physics near Geneva, LEP accelerates electrons & positrons to an energy of 50 GeV. It is housed in a circular tunnel 100m underground & 27km in circumference. The particles travel in opposite directions around the ring & collide at 4 points where detectors observe their interactions. The copper spheres in the photo are RF cavities (RF = radio frequency) in which radio waves set up powerful electric fields. These fields give the particles an accelerating " kick" each time they pass through the copper cylinder under the line of cavities. Photo taken April 1989
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6283825
© DAVID PARKER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Accelerator Cern European Centre For Nuclear Research Odyssey Particle Physics Laboratory Tunnel
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases one of the most remarkable scientific marvels of our time - the LEP particle collider at CERN. Nestled deep underground, this extraordinary accelerator is a testament to human ingenuity and relentless pursuit of knowledge. The image captures a mesmerizing view of one section within the vast labyrinthine tunnel that spans an astonishing 27 kilometers in circumference. As electrons and positrons race through this circular pathway in opposite directions, they gain incredible energy, reaching an astounding 50 GeV. Intriguing copper spheres dotting the frame are RF cavities, where radio waves generate powerful electric fields. These fields provide a vital "kick" to the particles every time they pass through the line of cavities, propelling them forward with even greater force. At four specific points along this colossal ring, detectors eagerly await collisions between these accelerated particles. It is at these precise moments that groundbreaking discoveries unfold as scientists observe their intricate interactions. Taken in April 1989 by Science Photo Library's talented photographers, this snapshot encapsulates both the grandeur and complexity of particle physics research conducted at CERN's European center for nuclear research. The LEP particle collider stands as a symbol of humanity's ceaseless quest to unravel nature's deepest secrets while pushing technological boundaries beyond imagination.
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