What are some possible future applications for supersolids?

  • #1
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TL;DR Summary
Speculating on what the now created supersolids can be used for in the future
Scientists finally created a 2D Supersolid! There existence has been predicted since the 60’s and now we have them. The scientists who created it don’t really know what it could be used for as it’s so much in the infancy stages, it’s practically a zygote. As an aspiring futurist, I was wondering if anyone had ideas on what a supersolid material could be utilized for.

Here is a link to an article explaining what it is.

https://www.popsci.com/science/what-is-a-supersolid/
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
It seems the prevalent property of frictionless sliding means you could make devices that slide effortlessly over a surface. That brings to mind transportation systems like maglev trains where now they could slide really close together for stability instead of being elevated.
 
  • #3
What was that stuff about climbing up a wall? PopSci misinterpretation?
 
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1. What exactly are supersolids?

Supersolids are a state of matter that have both solid and superfluid properties. They are characterized by their ability to flow without resistance, like superfluids, while also maintaining a rigid crystal lattice structure, like solids.

2. How are supersolids created?

Supersolids are created by cooling certain types of solid materials, such as helium-4 or solid hydrogen, to extremely low temperatures. This causes the atoms to slow down and form into a crystal lattice, while also allowing them to move freely and exhibit superfluid behavior.

3. What are some current applications for supersolids?

Currently, the main use for supersolids is in scientific research and experimentation. They have also been used in certain types of precision measurement tools, such as gyroscopes and accelerometers.

4. What are some potential future applications for supersolids?

Some possible future applications for supersolids include their use in quantum computers, as they are highly sensitive to changes in their environment and could potentially be used for quantum information storage and processing. They could also be used in advanced sensors and detectors for detecting gravitational waves or other subtle physical phenomena.

5. Are there any potential practical uses for supersolids in everyday life?

While there are currently no practical applications for supersolids in everyday life, further research and development could potentially lead to new technologies and devices that could benefit society. However, it is important to note that supercooled materials are extremely difficult and expensive to produce and maintain, so any practical applications may still be far in the future.

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