Question

Write any five applications of Superconductors.

Answer 1

Hint: To answer this question, we should be having an idea about the concept of superconductors. The characteristics that are performed by the superconductors will give us an idea about the various fields in which the superconductors can be implemented. Superconductors, in simple words can be explained as materials that conduct electricity with no resistance. The more detailed explanation of the superconductors is mentioned in the answer below.

Complete step by step answer:
The main difference between superconductors and normal conductors is that, unlike the conventional conductors, the superconductors carry a current indefinitely without losing any energy. Some potential examples of superconductors are aluminium, niobium, magnesium dioxide, cuprates such as yttrium barium copper oxide and also we can say iron pnictides.
Mainly the superconductors are considered as powerful electromagnets which can accelerate charged particles very fast. By fats we mean almost as fast as the speed of light. There are Superconducting Quantum Interference Devices which are mainly implemented to detect the weakest magnetic field.
Here are five main applications of Superconductors:
1. Magnetic levitation is an application where superconductors are known to perform extremely well. The transport vehicles such as trains which can be made to float on strong superconducting magnets, by virtually eliminating the friction between the train and its tracks.
2. A field where the superconductors can perform a lifesaving function is in the field of biomagnetism. In this field the doctors need a non-invasive way of determining what is going on inside the body of a human being. By implementing a strong superconductor which is derived from a magnetic field into the body, hydrogen atoms existing in the body's water and fat molecules are forced to accept energy from the implemented magnetic field. They then release this energy at a frequency that can be detected and displayed graphically on a monitor screen.
3. The electric generators which are made up of superconductors are considered to be far more efficient than the conventional generators which are wounded with copper wire. In fact, the efficiency of these electric generators are considered to be 99% and their size which is about half of that of the conventional generators also adds to the advantage
4. An ideal way of applying the superconductors is to employ them in the transmission of commercial power to the cities.
5. Superconductors are also used in a variety of applications in the fields of military.

Note: Superconductors, therefore can be considered as materials where the electrons can move without any resistance. But at present the superconductors do not work unless they are cooled well below room temperature. They stop showing any electrical resistance and they expel their magnetic fields which makes them ideal for conducting electricity.