Zero Resistivity in superconductors

In summary, superconductors have zero resistivity because there is no resistance, allowing for indefinite flow of currents. This is achieved by lowering the superconductor below its critical temperature (T_c) and using substances like liquid helium or nitrogen. The title of the topic should be "superconductor" and not "semiconductor". More information and explanations can be found in the articles by Nobel laureate Leggett and Brun Hansen.
  • #1
roshan2004
140
0
What is the meaning of zero resistivity in superconductors? I mean, what's the cause of zero resistivity in superconductors?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


There is no resistance, so currents will flow indefinitely. The cause is lowering the superconductor below its critical temperature (T_c). Usually liquid helium or nitrogen is used to cool a superconductor below T_c.
 
  • #3


Title should be "superconconductor", not "semi-".
 
  • #4
Title has been changed.

Zz.
 
  • #5
A nice explanation by nobel laureate Leggett can be found here:
http://online.physics.uiuc.edu/courses/phys598sc/fall08/L14.pdf
Very readable is also the article by Brun Hansen, "Infinite conductivity of ordinary and gapless superconductors", Physica, Vol 39, p. 271-292, (1968)
 
Last edited by a moderator:

1. What is zero resistivity in superconductors?

Zero resistivity in superconductors is a phenomenon in which certain materials, when cooled below a critical temperature, exhibit no resistance to the flow of electrical current.

2. How does zero resistivity occur in superconductors?

Zero resistivity in superconductors is caused by the formation of Cooper pairs, which are pairs of electrons that are able to move through the material without any resistance.

3. What is the critical temperature for zero resistivity in superconductors?

The critical temperature for zero resistivity in superconductors varies depending on the material, but it is typically below 20 Kelvin (-253.15°C or -423.67°F).

4. What are the practical applications of zero resistivity in superconductors?

The lack of resistance in superconductors makes them useful for a variety of applications, such as in MRI machines, particle accelerators, and power transmission lines.

5. What are the challenges in achieving zero resistivity in superconductors?

One major challenge in achieving zero resistivity in superconductors is the need for extremely low temperatures, which can be expensive and difficult to maintain. Additionally, the materials used in superconductors are often brittle and difficult to work with.

Similar threads

  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
3
Views
366
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top