Superconductivity in fullerides

In summary, the conversation discusses the difficulty in understanding the mechanism of superconductivity in the fulleride K3C60. The individual has looked at various articles explaining the debate over the mechanism, but found them too complex. They are seeking simpler explanations or resources. BCS theory is mentioned but is also deemed too mathematical. The conversation also touches on the role of electrons moving through the lattice and the formation of cooper pairs. Finally, it is mentioned that experiments suggest that fullerides exhibit superconductivity in a conventional manner, but there is a lack of understanding regarding the involvement of inter/intramolecular modes and vibrations.
  • #1
Gémeaux
4
0
I apologise if this is in the wrong subforum.

I'm having a lot of trouble determining how superconductivity works in the fulleride K3C60. I've looked at so many articles that explain the debate over the mechanism (ie electron-phonon coupling and electron-electron interactions), but each article gives an extremely detailed and mathematical explanation that I cannot comprehend.

I was wondering if anyone could provide any resources or explanations that are much easier to understand.

I would really appreciate any help.
 
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  • #2
Have you looked into BCS theory?
 
  • #3
Yes, but it appears too mathematical and too long. I only have a high school version of it- how the moving of electrons through the lattice causes a distortion, hwich in turn results in the emission of phonons. This essentially causes an increase in postive charge around the electron as the lattice kind of bends towards it, and then another electron becomes involved to form a cooper pair.

All experiments indicate that fullerides undergo superconductivity the conventional way, but then it gets into inter/intramolecular modes and vibrations that I really don't understand.
 

1. What are fullerides and how are they related to superconductivity?

Fullerides are compounds composed of a fullerene molecule (a hollow sphere of carbon atoms) and a metal atom. They are related to superconductivity because certain fullerides, such as alkali metal fullerides, exhibit superconducting behavior at relatively high temperatures.

2. What makes fullerides good superconductors?

Fullerides have a unique crystal structure that allows for strong electron-phonon interactions, which are essential for superconductivity. They also have a high density of electronic states near the Fermi level, making them good conductors of electricity.

3. How does superconductivity in fullerides differ from traditional superconductivity?

Superconductivity in fullerides differs from traditional superconductivity in several ways. Firstly, fullerides can achieve superconductivity at higher temperatures (up to 33 K) compared to traditional superconductors (maximum of 23 K). Additionally, the mechanism of superconductivity in fullerides is thought to involve both conventional electron-phonon interactions and unconventional interactions due to the fullerene molecule. This makes fullerides a unique and interesting area of study in superconductivity.

4. What are potential applications of superconductivity in fullerides?

The high-temperature superconductivity in certain fullerides could have practical applications in various fields, such as energy transmission and storage, magnetic levitation, and high-speed computing. Additionally, the unique properties of fullerides, such as their high electron density and strong electron-phonon interactions, make them promising candidates for use in sensors and quantum computing.

5. Are there any challenges or limitations in studying superconductivity in fullerides?

While fullerides offer exciting possibilities for high-temperature superconductivity, there are also challenges in studying and utilizing them. One major challenge is the difficulty in synthesizing high-quality fulleride compounds, which can affect the reproducibility of experimental results. Additionally, the unconventional nature of superconductivity in fullerides makes it a complex area of study, and further research is needed to fully understand and harness their potential.

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