A particle accelerator is a scientific device that propels charged particles, such as electrons or protons, to high speeds, often close to the speed of light. These particles are then collided with each other or with target materials to study fundamental physical processes and the properties of matter. These accelerators are crucial in various fields, including particle physics, where they help researchers explore the building blocks of the universe. Notable examples include the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and Fermilab, which have contributed to significant discoveries, such as the Higgs boson.