Superconductors
Intro to Superconductors
• Definition of superconductors
• Key properties:
• Zero electrical resistance
• Perfect diamagnetism
• Critical temperature
Video Demo
https://youtu.be/AWojYBhvfjM?si=R-wA60B0eOKL3esT&t=176
Theory of the Quantum Dance
Theory of the Quantum Dance
Theory of the Quantum Dance
Theory of the Quantum Dance
Theory of the Quantum Dance
- Typical Atom
- Fermions turn into Bosons
- Lowest energy
- Important for Superconductivity
Theory of the Quantum Dance
Theory of the Quantum Dance
Theory of the Quantum Dance
Theory of the Quantum Dance
- No fields inside Superconductor
- Causes repulsion of the magnet to
the superconductor
- Magnetic Levitation
- https://youtu.be/X5EoUD-
BIss?si=EOo_TeNbRPxOCqK3&t=293
Connection to the Class
- Maxwell equation used is Faraday's Law
- Δ x E = -dB/dt
- This equation is particularly relevant because superconductors exhibit the Meissner
effect, where they expel magnetic fields from their interior when cooled below a critical
temperature, resulting in perfect diamagnetism.
- In the case of the Meissner effect, this induced electric field in the superconductor leads
to the formation of surface currents that oppose the external magnetic field, resulting in
its expulsion from the interior.
Types of Superconductors
• Type I superconductors:
• Function at low critical temperatures near absolute zero (-273K)
• Typically elemental metals (Lead, Tin, Aluminum)
• Remain in that state until its past its critical temperature
• Type II superconductors:
• Alloys and mixed metals
• Function at high temperatures
• Maintain what is called a mixed state
- Can function as a superconductor or as normal
Applications
Research and Development
• Advancements in high-temperature superconductors:
• Recent discoveries and improvements in critical
temperature
• Exploration of unconventional superconductors:
• Investigating exotic materials and mechanisms for
superconductivity
• Superconducting electronics and quantum computing:
• Applications and challenges in building superconducting
qubits for quantum computers
Future Outlook and Thoughts
• Potential impact of superconductors on various industries:
• Transportation, healthcare, energy, computing, and more
• Challenges to overcome for widespread adoption:
• Cost reduction, materials advancement, scalability
• Opportunities for innovation and research collaboration:
• Importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration
for pushing the boundaries of superconductivity
Sources
• “Composition of an Atom.” GeeksforGeeks, GeeksforGeeks, 25 Feb. 2024, www.geeksforgeeks.org/composition-of-an-
atom/.
• “Magnetic Levitation in Future - Maglev Cars, Floating Cities in the World...” Mepits,
www.mepits.com/project/223/techno-innovations/magnetic-levitation-in-future-maglev-cars-floating-cities-in-the-
world. Accessed 2 May 2024.
• “The Physics of Superconductors.” YouTube, YouTube, 3 Dec. 2018, www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6FYs_AUCsQ&t=296s.
• Sood, Gaurav. “Stingray-Inspired Maglev Train Zooms Riders into the Future of Transportation - Yanko Design.” Yanko
Design - Modern Industrial Design News, 18 Sept. 2020, www.yankodesign.com/2020/09/18/stingray-inspired-maglev-
train-zooms-riders-into-the-future-of-transportation/.
• “Use of High-Temperature Superconductors to Make MR Imaging More Affordable, Accessible and
Sustainable.” MedImaging.Net, Medical Imaging International, 7 Dec. 2022,
www.medimaging.net/mri/articles/294795607/use-of-high-temperature-superconductors-to-make-mr-imaging-more-
affordable-accessible-and-sustainable.html.
• Wilkins, Alex. “Why Haven’t We Got Useful Quantum Computers Yet?” New Scientist, New Scientist, 19 Sept. 2023,
www.newscientist.com/article/2390568-why-havent-we-got-useful-quantum-computers-yet/.
Thank you
Kailon King
