Ceramic can become a superconductor

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conditions under which certain ceramic materials can become superconductors when cooled to low temperatures. Participants explore the nature of superconductivity, particularly in relation to ceramics and other materials, and the phenomena associated with superconductivity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants clarify that ceramics are not cooled to absolute zero (0 K) but rather to temperatures close to it.
  • There is a reference to high-temperature superconductivity, suggesting that some materials can become superconducting at significantly higher temperatures than 0 K.
  • One participant notes that the question posed may resemble a homework question, indicating a concern about the nature of the inquiry.
  • Participants discuss the distinction between superconductivity and perfect conductivity, mentioning the Meissner effect as a key characteristic of superconductors.
  • Another participant introduces the giant proximity effect, sharing personal research on its implications in high-temperature superconductors and expressing interest in advancing the understanding of this phenomenon.
  • It is mentioned that materials that are good conductors at room temperature are not necessarily superconductors, and vice versa.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the specifics of superconductivity, particularly regarding the cooling process and the definitions of superconductors versus conductors. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives presented.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the assumptions made about the definitions of superconductivity and the conditions under which materials transition to a superconducting state. Some statements rely on specific characteristics of materials that may not be universally applicable.

ziadett
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"ceramic" can become a superconductor

State why some insulatores such "ceramic " can become a superconductor when cooled to a temprature of 0 K. :confused:
 
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They are not cooled to a temperature of 0 K , they are cooled to a temerature close to 0 K.
 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-temperature_superconductivity" , can become superconducting at temperatures which are significantly higher than 0 K.

The http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/Hbase/solids/bcs.html" explains superconductivity in Type I superconductors.
"What causes high-temperature superconductivity?" is an open question in physics, isn't it?
 
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Yes it is. Besides, the wording of the OP's question makes it sound like homework (and this isn't the first time either).
 
Superconducting is not synonymous of perfect conducting. Another phenomenological condition is Meissner effect, that isn't understood by thinkinking of a perfect conductivity. There are normal conductors without a superconductive behaviour. Nevertheless, lead is a low level conductor, but superconductor if cooled down.
HTSC materials retain nowadays their peculiar "strangeness".
 
another interesting phenomena is the giant proximity effect that occurs when a superconducting material comes into contact with a normal conducting, My dissertation which has been posted on this forum was based on this phenomena Theoretical investigation into the proximity effect in high Tc Superconductors. I have to say it is perhaps one of the most interesting subject I have ever done in physics. I suppose a great break through in superconductivity would be if we can increase the coherence length of the proximity effect.
 
ziadett said:
State why some insulatores such "ceramic " can become a superconductor when cooled to a temprature of 0 K. :confused:
Well by definition, when certain elements are cooled down to a very low temperature often a few degrees above 0K which is charateristic to that particular element, show a remarkable property that they lose all trace of electrical resistance.

Also, one interesting general property of superconductors is that, materials which are good conductors at ordinary temperatures are not superconductors and superconducting materials are not good conductors at room temperatures.
 
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