Explain how a cyclotron produces a high-energy proton beam for proton beam therapy.
Understand the Problem
The question asks for an explanation of how a cyclotron accelerates protons to high energies for proton beam therapy, a cancer treatment. You need to describe the working principles of a cyclotron in the context of producing a high-energy proton beam.
Answer
Cyclotrons use magnetic and radio frequency fields to accelerate protons to high energies for proton beam therapy.
A cyclotron accelerates protons, stripped from hydrogen gas, using magnetic fields and radio frequency fields to achieve high energies (up to 230 MeV). These high-energy protons are then directed towards the target.
Answer for screen readers
A cyclotron accelerates protons, stripped from hydrogen gas, using magnetic fields and radio frequency fields to achieve high energies (up to 230 MeV). These high-energy protons are then directed towards the target.
More Information
The energy of the proton beam determines its penetration depth into the targeted tissue. If lower energies are required, energy degraders can be inserted in the path of the accelerated protons.
Tips
It is a common misconception that cyclotrons can adjust the energy of the proton beam during acceleration, but a cyclotron usually produces a single maximum energy.
Sources
- Proton Therapy: Behind the Scenes | OncoLink - oncolink.org
- Proton Therapy | Johns Hopkins Medicine - hopkinsmedicine.org
- How proton beam therapy is delivered - christie.nhs.uk
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