Metal Superconductors and Negative Temperature

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of metal superconductors when subjected to negative temperatures, particularly whether they would lose their superconductivity. The scope includes theoretical considerations and conceptual clarifications regarding temperature scales and the nature of superconductivity.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • JDM questions the effects of cooling a metal superconductor to negative temperatures and whether it would lose its superconductivity.
  • One participant challenges the premise of achieving negative temperatures, suggesting that it is not possible in absolute terms.
  • JDM references an article explaining that systems with truly negative temperatures can exist and are considered hotter than those with positive temperatures.
  • Another participant highlights that while certain systems can achieve negative temperatures, superconductivity is not among them, indicating that superconductors cannot reach negative temperatures.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the possibility of achieving negative temperatures in superconductors, with some asserting it is not feasible while others reference theoretical frameworks that allow for negative temperatures in specific systems.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the definitions of temperature and the specific conditions under which negative temperatures can exist, as well as the applicability of these concepts to superconductivity.

John d Marano
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What would happen to a metal superconductors taken below zero to a negative temperature? Would it loose its superconductivity?Regards,
JDM
 
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John d Marano said:
below zero to a negative temperature?
Absolute T? You do understand that's not possible?
 
That article has a number of important points that you didn't mention:

  • In physics, certain systems can achieve negative temperature
  • Most familiar systems cannot achieve negative temperatures
  • Negative temperatures can only exist in a system where there are a limited number of energy states
Superconductivity is not one of the listed, special systems, so you cannot reach negative temperature in a superconductor.
 

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