How Does a High Magnetic Field Break Superconductivity?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on the phenomenon of how high magnetic fields can disrupt the superconducting state of materials, particularly examining the mechanisms involved, such as the role of Cooper pairs and the differences between type 1 and type 2 superconductors. The scope includes theoretical considerations and exploratory reasoning regarding the effects of external magnetic fields on superconductivity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that high magnetic fields break the superconducting state by affecting the Cooper pairs, particularly through forces on their spins, leading to their separation.
  • Another participant questions whether the breaking of Cooper pairs occurs layer by layer at the surface of the superconductor due to the external magnetic field.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes the importance of both spin polarization and orbital magnetic momenta in the context of superconductivity.
  • It is proposed that the layer by layer mechanism may only apply to type 1 superconductors, while type 2 superconductors may allow for the formation of magnetic field tubes within the material.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the mechanisms by which high magnetic fields affect superconductivity, particularly regarding the role of Cooper pairs and the differences between types of superconductors. No consensus is reached on these points.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the specific conditions under which the mechanisms operate, nor does it resolve the mathematical or theoretical implications of the proposed models.

cragar
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When the B field gets too high it breaks the superconducting state. And then the B field can exist inside the conductor. When the field increases to point where it breaks the state is this because the cooper pairs flowing near the surface experience a force on their spin and then break them apart.
The force would break them apart because the spins are opposite on the electrons in the cooper pairs. If it breaks the cooper pairs at the surface does it just do this layer by layer until the state is broken? I am talking about an external B field acting on the superconductor.
 
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I'm sorry you are not generating any responses at the moment. Is there any additional information you can share with us? Any new findings?
 
I didn't think that my question was that difficult, I guess I can start looking at papers about superconductors relating to this topic.
 
Spin polarization is certainly important although there are also orbital magnetic momenta involved.
I think this layer by layer mechanism is only effective in type 1 superconductors. In type 2 conductors, more and more field tubes form inside the superconductor.
 

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