'High' Temerpature superconductivity

In summary, high temperature superconductivity refers to the achievement of superconductivity at or near room temperature, with a Tc greater than 50 K. This was thought to be impossible until the discovery of cuprate superconductors in 1986, which opened up new possibilities and challenges in the field. These high temperature superconductors may have low critical temperatures, but are named as such due to their similar crystal structure and superconducting mechanism to their relatives. They are often characterized as "bad" metals due to their poor conductivity and brittle nature.
  • #1
Bladibla
358
1
What is 'High' Temperature superconductivity?
 
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  • #2
Based on what I've heard...

Superconductivity can only be achieved at incredibly low temperatures (low to mid double digit Kelvin temperatures). High temperature superconductivity is superconductivity that can be achieved at or near room temperature.
 
  • #3
Not at. Highest critical temperature is (IIRC) still over 100K under room temperature. If you have more specific questions I'm sure Zz can answer those.
 
  • #4
"High" temperature superconductors are those achieving superconducitivity at Tc greater than 50 K. That's all.

Why 50 K? It's arbitrary. It was thought that Tc couldn't go beyond 35 or 40 K at best before 1986. Then the cuprate superconductors were discovered and all hell broke loose.

Zz.
 
  • #5
ZapperZ said:
Then the cuprate superconductors were discovered and all hell broke loose.
Oh really? I thought it was only part of hell...
 
  • #6
The term HTS may also refer to a particular class of superconductors, which demonstrates high critical temperature (actually, there is only one) But this particular materials may be called HTS even if they have rather low critical temperature. They are called so to emphasize that they have a crystal structure and a superconducting mechanism similar to their relatives. These materials are usually very poor conductors in their nonsuperconducting state and very brittle. Their mechanical characteristics are similar to those of ceramics and they have a layered crystal structure. Sometimes they are called "bad" metals.
 

FAQ: 'High' Temerpature superconductivity

What is 'high' temperature superconductivity?

'High' temperature superconductivity refers to the phenomenon where certain materials can conduct electricity with zero resistance at temperatures significantly higher than traditional superconductors. Traditional superconductors require extremely low temperatures, close to absolute zero, to exhibit superconducting properties. 'High' temperature superconductivity can occur at temperatures up to 150K, making it easier to achieve and more practical for real-world applications.

How does 'high' temperature superconductivity work?

The exact mechanism of 'high' temperature superconductivity is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the interaction between electrons and the crystal structure of the material. At high temperatures, the vibrations of atoms in the crystal lattice can create a favorable environment for the electrons to pair up and flow without resistance.

What are the potential applications of 'high' temperature superconductivity?

'High' temperature superconductivity has the potential to revolutionize various industries such as energy, transportation, and healthcare. It could lead to more efficient power transmission, faster and more powerful electronic devices, and advanced medical imaging technologies, among others.

What are the challenges in achieving practical 'high' temperature superconductivity?

One of the main challenges in achieving practical 'high' temperature superconductivity is finding materials that exhibit this phenomenon at even higher temperatures. Currently, the highest temperature at which superconductivity has been observed is 203K, which is still not high enough for widespread use. Another challenge is finding ways to synthesize and manufacture these materials in a cost-effective manner.

Are there any potential downsides to 'high' temperature superconductivity?

One potential downside is that 'high' temperature superconductivity may not be able to achieve the same level of zero resistance as traditional superconductors. There may also be challenges in maintaining the superconducting state at high temperatures, as it can be easily disrupted by external factors such as magnetic fields. Additionally, the materials used for 'high' temperature superconductivity may be more expensive and difficult to produce compared to traditional superconductors.

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