Learn about the four main types of synchrotron light sources and their applications. Discover how synchrotrons revolutionized scientific research.

4 Most Common Types of Synchrotron Light Sources

Introduction

Synchrotron light sources are powerful research tools used to study the properties of materials and biological structures. These facilities produce brilliant beams of light that are used to probe the microscopic and atomic structures of matter. Synchrotrons work by accelerating electrons to nearly the speed of light and then directing them along a circular path. As the electrons travel along the path, they emit synchrotron radiation, which is a form of electromagnetic radiation that is thousands of times brighter than conventional light sources.

There are four main types of synchrotron light sources, each with its own unique features and capabilities. In this article, we will explore these four types of synchrotron light sources and their applications.

Bending Magnet Synchrotrons

Bending magnet synchrotrons are the simplest and most common type of synchrotron light source. These synchrotrons use a series of powerful magnets to bend the path of the electrons and produce synchrotron radiation. The radiation produced by bending magnet synchrotrons is relatively broad and covers a wide range of wavelengths. These synchrotrons are typically used for a variety of applications, including X-ray diffraction, protein crystallography, and X-ray imaging.

Wiggler Synchrotrons

Wiggler synchrotrons use a series of wigglers, which are powerful magnets with alternating north and south poles, to produce synchrotron radiation. The radiation produced by wiggler synchrotrons is much brighter and more focused than that produced by bending magnet