Deriving the London's equation for superconductor

In summary, the equation for the "canonical momentum of the ground state of superconductor is zero" can be obtained from broken symmetry arguments, as explained by Weinberg. This concept is also referred to as "rigidity of the wavefunction" by the Londons. In Kittel's Quantum theory of solids, it is discussed how a superconductor responds to an applied transversal field, resulting in an unchanged wavefunction and expectation of momentum. A more detailed explanation can be found in Kittel's work or through the use of field theory.
  • #1
Trave11er
71
0
The equation can be obtained from the fact that the "canonical momentum of the ground grstate of superconductor is zero", but where does this fact follow from.
P.S. Jackson gives a vague reference to Kittel, which I couldn't find in his Introduction_to_solid_state/Quantum_theory_of_Solids.
 
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  • #3
There are plenty of explanations around. Maybe the most general is due to broken symmetry arguments as expounded by Weinberg:
http://ptp.ipap.jp/link?PTPS/86/43/
 
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  • #4
Thank you for the gem, DrDu - it is beautiful.
 
  • #5
Actually, it is beautiful, but I don't understand much. Can you provide an explanation without calling for field theory?
 
  • #6
In Kittel Quantum theory of solids he discusses how a superconductor reacts to an applied transversal field of long wavelength. He finds that the wavefunction remains unchanged to lowest order. Hence the expectation of the momentum <p>=0 also does not change with A. This has already been called "rigidity of the wavefunction" by the Londons.
 

1. What is the London's equation for superconductor?

The London's equation for superconductor is a mathematical relation that describes the behavior of electric currents in a superconducting material. It was first derived by brothers Fritz and Heinz London in 1935.

2. How is the London's equation derived?

The London's equation is derived by combining the Maxwell's equations of electromagnetism with the quantum mechanical description of superconducting electrons. This results in a set of two coupled equations that describe the motion of superconducting electrons and their interaction with electromagnetic fields.

3. What are the main assumptions made in deriving the London's equation?

The London's equation is derived under two main assumptions: 1) Superconducting materials have a perfect diamagnetism, meaning they expel magnetic fields from their interior; 2) Superconducting electrons move without any resistance, also known as zero resistance.

4. What is the significance of the London's equation in understanding superconductivity?

The London's equation is a key component in the theory of superconductivity. It explains the fundamental properties of superconducting materials, such as zero resistance and perfect diamagnetism. It also provides a basis for understanding the behavior of superconducting materials in different conditions and applications.

5. Are there any limitations to the London's equation?

While the London's equation is a valuable tool in understanding superconductivity, it has some limitations. It is only applicable to type I superconductors, which have a single critical magnetic field. It also does not take into account the effects of temperature and impurities on superconducting behavior. More advanced equations, such as the Ginzburg-Landau theory, have been developed to overcome these limitations.

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