Date | May 2017 | Marks available | 1 | Reference code | 17M.3.hl.TZ1.8 |
Level | HL | Paper | 3 | Time zone | TZ1 |
Command term | State | Question number | 8 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Lanthanum has a hexagonal close packed (hcp) crystal structure. State the coordination number of each lanthanum atom.
Lanthanum becomes superconducting below 5 K. Explain, in terms of Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer (BCS) theory, how superconductivity occurs.
Outline why superconductivity only occurs at low temperatures.
Markscheme
twelve/12
[1 mark]
«moving» electron attracts «nearby» positive charges/ions/cations
creates «local» regions of increased positive charge
positive charge/field attracts second electron «with opposite spin»
two electrons form a Cooper pair
«all» Cooper pairs «in sample» interact/form «electron» condensate
«electron» condensate/Cooper pairs move/flow «through sample» freely/without resistance
[3 marks]
reduces the band gap to zero
OR
«at high temperatures» thermal motion disrupts the formation of Cooper pairs
[1 mark]