Today we are going to discuss some chemistry topics about superconductors.
What is Superconductors?
When an electric current flows through a conductive solid, electrons encounter collisions among themselves, leading to the phenomenon of resistance. At lower temperatures, there is a reduction in vibrational activity, resulting in fewer collisions and, consequently, lower resistance. In superconductive materials, if cooled below a critical temperature, electrical resistance diminishes to zero. This groundbreaking characteristic facilitates unimpeded electrical current flow, opening up possibilities for a multitude of practical applications.
Historical Journey of Superconductors :
The discovery of superconductivity dates back to 1911 when Dutch physicist Heike Kamerlingh Onnes, conducting research at the University of Leiden, observed a groundbreaking phenomenon. By cooling mercury to extremely low temperatures, he noticed the complete disappearance of its electrical resistance. This pivotal moment marked the inception of superconductivity, initiating further exploration into the enigmatic realm of materials with zero resistance.
In the subsequent decades, scientists dedicated their efforts to unraveling the fundamental principles behind superconductivity. The focus shifted to the critical temperature, the threshold below which superconductivity emerges. Despite advancements in understanding, practical applications were constrained by the necessity for extremely low temperatures, often requiring costly and unwieldy cryogenic equipment.
A significant milestone occurred in 1957 with the development of the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer (BCS) theory by physicists John Bardeen, Leon Cooper, and Robert Schrieffer. This theory offered a comprehensive explanation for superconductivity by elucidating the formation of Cooper pairs—electron pairs capable of moving through a lattice without scattering, resulting in the absence of resistance. The BCS theory provided a solid groundwork for subsequent research and advancements in the field.
Application :
One of the visually captivating applications of superconductors is magnetic levitation. The phenomenon of quantum locking, demonstrated through levitating objects above superconductors, showcases the potential for frictionless movement and opens avenues for innovative transportation solutions.
Medical Imaging and Beyond:
Superconductors play a crucial role in medical diagnostics, particularly in the development of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The high magnetic fields generated by superconducting magnets in MRI machines provide detailed and accurate images for medical professionals.
Energy Transmission and Storage:
Superconductors have found applications in the realm of energy transmission and storage. Superconducting materials with minimal electrical resistance are employed in power transmission cables, promising more efficient and cost-effective energy distribution over long distances.
In the rapidly evolving field of quantum computing, superconductors are key players. Superconducting qubits, leveraging the principles of superposition and entanglement, hold immense potential for advancing computational capabilities beyond the limits of classical computing.
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