Working and Applications of
Superconductors
Submitted By: [Your Name]
Class: XII – Science
Roll Number: [Your Roll Number]
School Name: [Your School Name]
Academic Year: 2025–26
Subject: Physics
Board: CBSE
1. Acknowledgement
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my Physics teacher [Teacher’s Name] for
their valuable support, encouragement, and insightful guidance throughout the
completion of this project. This project would not have been possible without their
supervision.
I am also thankful to my parents and friends for their constant motivation, and to all those
who directly or indirectly helped me to complete this project successfully. I have learned
a lot during the course of this project and am grateful for the opportunity to explore this
fascinating topic in-depth.
2. Introduction
Superconductivity is a quantum mechanical phenomenon that occurs in certain materials
at very low temperatures, characterized by exactly zero electrical resistance and the
expulsion of magnetic fields (the Meissner effect). It was first discovered by Heike
Kamerlingh Onnes in 1911 when he observed that the resistance of mercury suddenly
dropped to zero when cooled below 4.2 K (Kelvin).
This discovery marked a revolution in the understanding of electrical conduction. Over
the years, the study of superconductivity has found a prominent place in modern physics
due to its unique properties and practical applications in fields such as medicine, power
transmission, transportation, and computing.
3. Objective
- To understand the phenomenon of superconductivity.
- To explore the theoretical foundations and properties of superconductors.
- To study the practical applications of superconductors in different fields of science and
technology.
- To evaluate the future prospects of superconductors in everyday life.
4. Historical Background
The journey of superconductivity began with the liquefaction of helium by Heike
Kamerlingh Onnes in 1908. In 1911, while experimenting with the resistance of metals at
cryogenic temperatures, he found that mercury’s resistance dropped suddenly to zero at
4.2 K. This unexpected behavior was termed superconductivity.
Subsequent decades saw the discovery of superconductivity in other elements and alloys.
In 1957, Bardeen, Cooper, and Schrieffer proposed the famous BCS theory, which
provided a theoretical explanation of superconductivity.
5. Theory and Principles
5.1 What is Superconductivity?
Superconductivity is a state of matter in which certain materials conduct electric current
without any resistance and with the complete expulsion of magnetic fields when cooled
below a critical temperature (Tc). Unlike ordinary conductors, superconductors allow
electric current to flow indefinitely without power loss.
5.2 Properties of Superconductors
1. Zero Electrical Resistance
2. Meissner Effect
3. Critical Temperature (Tc)
4. Critical Magnetic Field (Hc)
5. Persistent Currents
5.3 BCS Theory
The BCS theory proposes that electrons in a superconductor form bound pairs called
Cooper pairs, which move through the lattice without scattering.
5.4 Types of Superconductors
Type I Superconductors: Pure metals like lead.
Type II Superconductors: Alloys or ceramics with higher Tc and Hc.
6. Applications of Superconductors
6.1 Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Used to generate strong magnetic fields for imaging.
6.2 Maglev Trains
Use magnetic repulsion for levitation and frictionless travel.
6.3 Particle Accelerators
Used to steer and focus particle beams.
6.4 Power Transmission
Enables lossless electricity transmission.
6.5 Quantum Computing
Superconducting qubits power quantum computers.
6.6 SMES
Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage for efficient power backup.
7. Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
Zero energy loss, powerful magnets, faster systems.
Disadvantages
Cryogenic cooling required, expensive materials, complex infrastructure.
8. Recent Advances
High-Temperature Superconductors
Operate at 77 K or above using ceramic compounds.
Room-Temperature Superconductors
In development, possible under high pressure with hydrogen-rich materials.
9. Conclusion
Conclusion
Superconductivity is a fascinating and promising area in modern physics. Though there
are challenges, continuous advancements are bringing us closer to making
superconductivity practical in everyday life.
10. Bibliography
Bibliography
1. NCERT Class 12 Physics Textbook
2. Concepts of Physics by H.C. Verma
3. www.sciencedirect.com
4. www.nature.com
5. www.physicstoday.org
