microelectronics
/ˌmaɪkroʊɪlɛkˈtrɒnɪks/
Definition
The branch of electronics dealing with the design and production of very small electronic components and circuits, typically used in sensitive scientific instrumentation.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'mikros' meaning 'small' combined with 'electronics.' The term emerged in the mid-20th century to describe the shift toward miniaturizing electronic systems into compact integrated circuits.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe the specialized hardware developed at Brookhaven National Laboratory for the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment. It highlights the technical engineering components required to detect high-energy particle interactions.
Ask me anything: Mary Bishai – ‘For a self-professed nerd like me, doing big science is heaven’
Read the full article ↗Physics World