a stream of electrons

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stream of electrons" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to physics, electronics, or discussions about electricity and current flow. Example: "In a vacuum tube, a stream of electrons is emitted from the cathode and travels towards the anode."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Usually, electricity travels through metal as a stream of electrons.

The New York Times - Science

It fires a stream of electrons at phosphors coating the inside of the globe.

The New York Times - Tech

The experiment can be repeated with a stream of electrons instead of a beam of light.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Sun emits a stream of electrons and protons called the solar wind.

Cornell University

When hit by a stream of electrons, the balls turn either their white or black face forward.

The New York Times

Klystron, thermionic electron tube that generates or amplifies microwaves by controlling the speed of a stream of electrons.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

He designed a new type of electron microscope – by judicious use of ultrafast laser pulses and the photoelectric effect – in which a stream of individual electrons, repeated on a femtosecond scale, could be used to probe the dynamics of atoms in solids and their surfaces, as well as to interrogate biological materials.

The Guardian

There was another pause, and a stream of agitated electrons burbled along between us.

The New Yorker

This is done by suitably controlling a stream of free electrons.

Nature

A stream of free electrons, whether in a vacuum or a gas, can be manipulated with such facility that the electricity can be increased or decreased at the rate of millions of times a second, or alternatively as slowly as desired, and no limit is set to the amount of energy which can be so controlled.

Nature

The current, moving like a tiny stream of electrons, is a lot like a river running downhill.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the operational principle of electronic devices like cathode ray tubes or electron microscopes, use "a stream of electrons" to clearly indicate the directed movement of electrons essential to their function.

Common error

Avoid using "a stream of electrons" and "electron beam" interchangeably. While both refer to electron movement, "beam" implies a highly focused and collimated stream, whereas "stream" can be less precisely defined.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stream of electrons" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a flow of electrons, a fundamental concept in physics and electrical engineering. Ludwig confirms its validity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stream of electrons" is a grammatically sound noun phrase commonly employed in scientific and technical contexts to describe the directed movement of electrons. As confirmed by Ludwig, its usage spans physics, electrical engineering, and related fields. While alternatives like "electron flow" or "electron current" exist, the specific choice depends on the desired emphasis and context. When writing, ensure clarity by differentiating between "stream" and the more focused "beam". The frequency analysis indicates its prevalence in scientific literature, news coverage, and encyclopedic entries, highlighting its importance in conveying technical information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

electron flow

Focuses on the movement aspect, a more concise alternative.

electron beam

Suggests a focused, directed stream of electrons, often in technological applications.

electron current

Emphasizes the electrical aspect of the electron movement.

flow of charged particles

A broader term including electrons and other charged particles.

electron flux

Indicates the rate of electron flow per unit area.

electron discharge

Refers to the release of electrons, often sudden.

electron cascade

Describes a multiplying effect of electrons.

electron avalanche

Similar to electron cascade, implying a rapid increase.

cloud of electrons

Describes a less focused and less directional movement of electrons.

swarm of electrons

Implies a large group of electrons moving together, but not necessarily in a directed stream.

FAQs

How is "a stream of electrons" used in scientific contexts?

In science, "a stream of electrons" often describes phenomena in physics, such as in cathode ray tubes, particle accelerators, or the solar wind. It refers to the directed movement of electrons, typically under the influence of electric or magnetic fields.

What's the difference between "electron flow" and "a stream of electrons"?

"Electron flow" is a more general term referring to the movement of electrons in a circuit or material, while "a stream of electrons" suggests a more directed and concentrated movement, like in a vacuum tube or particle accelerator.

Can I use "electron current" instead of "a stream of electrons"?

Yes, "electron current" is often interchangeable with "a stream of electrons", especially when discussing electrical circuits or the flow of charge. However, "a stream of electrons" might be preferred when emphasizing the physical movement of the electrons themselves.

Is "a stream of electrons" applicable outside of physics and engineering?

While primarily used in physics and engineering, "a stream of electrons" can metaphorically describe a continuous flow or output of something, though this usage is less common. It's most accurate and appropriate in technical and scientific contexts.