The Evolution of Superconductivity: Theoretical Foundations and Material Progress

Abstract

Superconductivity is a quantum mechanical phenomenon observed in certain materials at temperatures below a critical threshold (Tc), characterized by the complete absence of electrical resistance and the expulsion of magnetic fields—a property known as the Meissner effect. This state arises when electrons form Cooper pairs, enabling them to move through the lattice without scattering, as described by the Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer (BCS) theory. Since its discovery in 1911, superconductivity has become indispensable across various scientific and technological domains. The advent of high-temperature superconductors (HTS) in the 1980s, which operate at temperatures achievable with liquid nitrogen, has expanded practical applications. These include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), particle accelerators, maglev trains, and advanced power transmission systems. Recent research into cuprate superconductors has unveiled a quantum critical point that may elucidate the mechanisms behind high-temperature superconductivity. This paper provides an accessible overview of the theoretical foundations of superconductivity and explores its diverse applications, highlighting its transformative impact on modern technology.