Superconductivity

In this episode of "In Our Time," host Robert Douglas-Fairhurst leads a discussion with professors Nigel Hussey, Suchitra Sebastian, and Stephen Blundell about the phenomenon of superconductivity. The conversation begins with the historical context of its discovery by Heike Kamerlingh Onnes, then explores the surprising and initially inexplicable properties of superconductors, such as zero electrical resistance and the expulsion of magnetic fields. The panel discusses the theoretical challenges in understanding superconductivity, including the BCS theory and the emergence of high-temperature superconductors, and also touches on the practical applications of superconductors in MRI scanners, quantum computing, nuclear fusion, and more, highlighting the ongoing revolution and future potential of this quantum phenomenon.