Answer to Question #102623 in Physics for BIVEK SAH

Question

1)Distinguish between Type I and Type II superconductors.
2)What is the function of the quartz crystal used in a digital watch?

Answer 1

Soft Superconductors (Type I) :

1. Soft superconductors are those which can tolerate impurities without affecting the superconducting properties.

2. They have low critical field.

3. Show complete Meissner effect.

4. The current flows through the surface only.

5. Eg. Tin, Aluminium.

Hard Superconductors (Type II) :

1. Hard superconductors are those which cannot tolerate impurities, i.e., the impurity affects the superconducting property.

2. They have high critical field.

3. Hard super conductors trap magnetic flux and hence Meissner effect is not complete.

4. It is found that current flows throughout the material.

5. Eg. Tantalum, Neobium.

 Quartz crystals maintain a precise frequency standard, which helps to regulate the movement of a watch or clock, thus making the timepieces very accurate.