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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.

[1]
a.

Lanthanum becomes superconducting below 5 K. Explain, in terms of Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer (BCS) theory, how superconductivity occurs.

[3]
b.

Outline why superconductivity only occurs at low temperatures.

[1]
c.

Markscheme

twelve/12

[1 mark]

a.

«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]

b.

reduces the band gap to zero
OR
«at high temperatures» thermal motion disrupts the formation of Cooper pairs

[1 mark]

c.

Examiners report

[N/A]
a.
[N/A]
b.
[N/A]
c.

Syllabus sections

Options » A: Materials » A.8 Superconducting metals and X-ray crystallography (HL only)
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Options » A: Materials
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