Daily Current Affairs : 5-January-2024

A recent study conducted by scientists in China and Japan has sparked excitement in the field of superconductivity. The focus is on a material called LK-99, previously surrounded by controversy due to claims of being a room-temperature and pressure (RTP) superconductor.

Observations in LK-99:

In the study, researchers observed the Meissner effect in copper-substituted lead apatite, a key indicator of superconductivity. The Meissner effect plays a pivotal role in identifying materials capable of conducting electricity without resistance. This groundbreaking discovery challenges prior skepticism about LK-99’s superconducting properties.

Meissner Effect Unveiled:

The Meissner effect is a phenomenon seen in superconductors, where these materials actively expel magnetic fields from their interior upon cooling below a critical temperature. This expulsion occurs during the material’s transition to a superconducting state, showcasing the remarkable ability to conduct electric currents without any resistance.

Reddmatter’s Preceding Impact:

Adding to the context, just a few months prior to this revelation, in August 2023, a new superconductor material named Reddmatter was developed. These recent advancements underscore the growing interest and progress in the field of superconductors, paving the way for potential applications in various industries.

Important Points:
  • Breakthrough Discovery:
    • Scientists in China and Japan report signs of superconductivity in LK-99.
    • LK-99 was previously controversially claimed to be a room-temperature and pressure (RTP) superconductor.
  • Meissner Effect Observation:
    • Researchers observed the Meissner effect in copper-substituted lead apatite, a key indicator of superconductivity.
    • Meissner effect demonstrates the ability of superconductors to expel magnetic fields when cooled below a critical temperature.
    • This expulsion signifies the transition to a superconducting state, allowing the material to conduct electric currents without resistance.
  • Reddmatter’s Preceding Impact:
    • In August 2023, Reddmatter, a new superconductor material, was developed.
    • The development of Reddmatter adds context to the recent breakthrough with LK-99.
    • Both discoveries showcase advancements in the field of superconductors.
  • Meissner Effect Overview:
    • Phenomenon observed in superconductors.
    • Magnetic fields are actively expelled from the interior of superconductors below a critical temperature.
    • Occurs during the transition to a superconducting state, highlighting the material’s ability to conduct electric currents with zero resistance.
  • Implications and Future Prospects:
    • The discovery challenges prior skepticism about LK-99’s superconducting properties.
    • Combined with Reddmatter, these advancements hint at unprecedented breakthroughs in room-temperature superconductors.
    • Anticipation within the scientific community for further research and exploration to unlock the full potential of these materials.
    • Potential implications include advancements in energy efficiency and technology.
Why In News

A recent study by scientists in China and Japan has reported signs of superconductivity in a material called LK-99, which had been controversially claimed to be a room-temperature and pressure (RTP) superconductor, raising intriguing possibilities for the development of more efficient energy transmission systems.

MCQs about Room-Temperature Superconductors

  1. What material did scientists in China and Japan study to observe signs of superconductivity?
    A. Reddmatter
    B. Lead Apatite
    C. LK-99
    D. Copper
    Correct Answer: C. LK-99
    Explanation: The scientists observed signs of superconductivity in LK-99, which had been controversially claimed to be a room-temperature and pressure superconductor.
  2. What phenomenon did researchers identify in copper-substituted lead apatite as a key indicator of superconductivity?
    A. Newton’s Law
    B. Meissner Effect
    C. Ohm’s Law
    D. Boyle’s Law
    Correct Answer: B. Meissner Effect
    Explanation: The researchers observed the Meissner effect in copper-substituted lead apatite, indicating the material’s superconductivity.
  3. What does the Meissner effect demonstrate in superconductors?
    A. Increased magnetic field
    B. Resistance to electric currents
    C. Expulsion of magnetic fields
    D. Higher critical temperature
    Correct Answer: C. Expulsion of magnetic fields
    Explanation: The Meissner effect showcases the ability of superconductors to expel magnetic fields from their interior when transitioning to a superconducting state.
  4. When was Reddmatter, a new superconductor material, developed?
    A. August 2022
    B. August 2023
    C. July 2024
    D. September 2023
    Correct Answer: B. August 2023
    Explanation: Reddmatter was developed in August 2023, adding context to the recent breakthrough with LK-99 and emphasizing advancements in the field of superconductors.

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