Exploring Superfluidity: Macroscopic Quantity and Photographic Possibilities

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In summary, the biggest quantity of superfluid that has been made so far is unknown. However, one common example is liquid Helium-4 cooled below 2.17K, which is considered to be a fair amount and definitely in the macroscopic range. Superfluidity is not destroyed by photography, as the perturbing energy will transfer to the system maintaining its state. There are some photos available, though they may not be very clear.
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Swamp Thing
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What is the biggest quantity of superfluid that has ever been made so far? Is it in the "macroscopic" range? Will the superfluidity be destroyed by photographing the stuff? Can one get a snapshot of it creeping up the bucket's wall, etc?
 
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A superfluid is a simple fuild and it's state is not destroyed by simple photography. I do not know the "biggest quantity" of superfluid made. So when you photograph a superfluid the perturbing energy wiil get transferred to
the system that is maintaining its state.
 
  • #3
Well, one of the most common examples of superfluid is liquid Helium-4 cooled to below 2.17K. I don't know exactly what the "biggest quantity" is, but if you've ever seen dewar flasks of liquid nitrogen you can probably guess that it's a fair amount, and certainly macroscopic. No, photography doesn't destroy superfluidity, and can you see some photos (though not terribly clear ones I'm afraid) here.
 
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1. What is superfluid?

Superfluid is a state of matter that exhibits zero viscosity and infinite thermal conductivity. It is a type of fluid that can flow without any resistance or loss of energy.

2. How is superfluid different from regular fluids?

Unlike regular fluids, which experience friction and resistance when flowing, superfluids can flow without any resistance. They also have the ability to climb up the walls of their container and leak through imperceptible holes.

3. How is superfluid created?

Superfluid can be created by cooling certain substances, such as helium, to extremely low temperatures. This causes the atoms to lose their individual identities and behave as a single entity, allowing for superfluidity.

4. What are the practical applications of superfluid?

Superfluid has several practical applications, such as in cryogenics and superconductivity research. It is also used in certain medical procedures, such as in cooling MRI magnets, and in the production of ultra-sensitive sensors and detectors.

5. What is the significance of "A gallon, please" in the term "Superfluid: A gallon, please"?

"A gallon, please" is a humorous reference to the fact that superfluid helium can climb up the walls of its container and leak through imperceptible holes, making it difficult to contain. This phrase is used to illustrate the unique properties of superfluidity.

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