Dynatron

/ˈdaɪnəˌtrɒn/ noun

Definition

A type of vacuum tube used in early electronics and radar systems that generates oscillating electrical signals through a negative resistance effect.

Etymology

From Greek dynamis 'power' + -tron (from electron). Invented in the early 1900s by combining Greek power terminology with the newly discovered electron.

Kelly Says

WWII radar operators relied on dynatrons to detect enemy aircraft—these tubes converted steady electrical power into oscillating waves that bounced off planes miles away.

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