William and Lawrence Bragg studied crystals with x-rays. They observed the diffraction patterns on photographic film and determined the internal crystal structure of the crystal. They revealed the arrangement of the atoms in the material and the electron BCS Theory: density. It shows that metals have atoms Bardeen, Cooper and Schrieffer theorised the arranged into a crystal with very high electron BCS theory of superconductors. density while non-metals have more spread As an electron moves through a metal out electrons. lattice, the positively charged ions are attracted and distort the lattice. Therefore, Metal crystal lattice structure: there is a high positive charge around that Metals possess a crystal lattice structure. area and it attracts a 2nd electron. These 2 The metal nuclei form an orderly lattice electrons pair and form a cooper pair. and are surrounded by a ‘sea’ of When electrons are linked, they move delocalised electrons. through without any collision or resistance. As long as the temperature is low, the cooper Conduction as free movement of unimpeded pairs stay intact due to the reduced molecular electrons: motion (vibrations). In metals, the delocalised electrons randomly move in all directions (kinetic theory) but since an equal number move in each direction, there is no net change in charge. When a potential difference is applied, the electrons will drift towards the positive area Advantages and limitations of since they are unimpeded. A general superconductors: movement is established, creating a current. Thin wires can carry large current, as no energy is lost to resistance. Impurities and vibrations cause resistance: Using superconductors in powerplants leads Chemical impurities disrupt the lattice to increased efficiency/decreases E loss. integrity which impedes moving electrons. Decrease in electricity demand as wire lose When a lattice vibrated (due to heat or KE), less energy. the path of an electron is deflected and There is a maximum current before it reverts scattered by collision with the vibrating to normal conductivity, due to the net energy. particles. Meisner effect: In order for a superconducting material to Superconductors: work, it must have 0 magnetic field strength Critical temperature: Temperature at which inside the conductor. When a weak magnet is a certain material’s atoms in the metallic place over it, magnetic fields penetrate the lattice experience minimal (near 0) KE superconductor. The superconductor (vibrations) and electrons can move produces a current to induce a mag. Field unimpeded by any collisions. Therefore, a that will oppose the initial mag. field, expelling near 0 resistance current. all magnetic forces and holding the magnet in place.