It has been known for many years that ceramics can conduct electricity. In 2008, scientists found a ceramic material that can conduct electricity with no resistance at 133 K. What is the most important significance of this 2008 finding?
Answer
A
Ceramic materials have been known to be able to conduct electricity prior to year 2008.
B
This is a lower temperature than Onnes’s experiment, and it will allow for a broader use of superconductors.
C
Materials that can conduct electricity with no resistance are new and can allow for new materials to be made.
D
This is a higher temperature than Onnes’s experiment, and it will allow for a broader use of superconductors.
Explanation
A material that conducts electricity with no resistance is a superconductor. Onnes first observed superconductivity at about 4 K, while the ceramic found in 2008 did so at 133 K—a much higher temperature. Operating at a higher temperature can make cooling easier and expand the practical use of superconductors, so choice D is correct.
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