What materials can be used as a superconductor?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the materials that can be used as superconductors, particularly focusing on high-temperature superconductors and their critical temperatures. Participants explore the feasibility of obtaining and creating superconductors in a school laboratory setting.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about metals that can become superconductors at temperatures above 63 K, specifically those that can be purchased.
  • Another participant states that there are no typical metals with a critical temperature above 77 K, mentioning oxocuprates like YBaCO as exceptions.
  • A participant questions the possibility of creating a high-temperature superconductor in a school laboratory.
  • Another response emphasizes the difficulty of making high-Tc cuprates and warns about the toxicity of some compounds involved, suggesting that purchasing superconductors might be a safer alternative.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of creating high-temperature superconductors in a school laboratory, with some emphasizing the challenges and risks involved, while others suggest purchasing them as a viable option. No consensus is reached on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the critical temperatures of materials and the potential hazards associated with certain compounds, but do not resolve the implications of these factors for laboratory work.

Max Born
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Hey guys!

I'm doing a science project on high temperature superconductors and i was just wondering, what kind of metals that can be bought will become a superconductor when put in liquid nitrogen. Liquid nitrogen of course is 63k so anything below 63 kelvins will not work, however if a metal can become a superconductor if the temperature is >63k's than that will be awesome!

Thanks!
 
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There are no typical metals with a critical temperature above 77 K. The only substances known with a higher critical temperature are the oxocuprates like YBaCO.
 
So is it possible for me to make a high temperature superconductor in a school laboratory?
 
Max Born said:
So is it possible for me to make a high temperature superconductor in a school laboratory?

High-Tc cuprates are not made that easily. Furthermore, some of the compounds used (Ba, Y, Sr, etc) are toxic and should not be in the hands of people who are ignorant of their dangers.

Why can't you just buy one? School lab supplies catalogs often list such superconductors for purchase.

Zz.
 

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