electron tube

/'ilektrɔn'tju:b/

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Word: Electron Tube

Definition: An electron tube is an electronic device that contains a system of electrodes (which are parts that conduct electricity) arranged inside a sealed glass or metal container (like a vacuum). It helps control the flow of electrical signals.

Usage Instructions:

• The term "electron tube" is often used in electronics, physics, and engineering.
• It is mainly found in discussions about older technology, as many modern devices use transistors instead.

Example:

• "The old radio used an electron tube to amplify the sound."

Advanced Usage:

• In more advanced contexts, you might discuss different types of electron tubes, such as vacuum tubes, cathode ray tubes, or microwave tubes, each serving specific purposes in electronics and communication.

Word Variants:

• Vacuum Tube: A common type of electron tube that works by creating a vacuum inside the glass envelope.
• Cathode Ray Tube (CRT): A specific type of electron tube used in older televisions and computer monitors to display images.

Different Meanings:

• While "electron tube" primarily refers to the electronic device, in a broader sense, it can refer to any vacuum-based technology used in electronics.

Synonyms:

• Vacuum tube
• Valve (in British English)
• Thermionic tube (specifically referring to tubes that use thermionic emission)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "electron tube," but understanding the broader context of electronics can help with related phrases.

Summary:

An electron tube is an important device in the history of electronics, used to control electrical signals.

Academic

Noun

1. electronic device consisting of a system of electrodes arranged in an evacuated glass or metal envelope

Synonyms

• tube
• vacuum tube
• thermionic vacuum tube
• thermionic tube
• thermionic valve