Two physics students are arguing about superconductors and their discovery. Jeffe says that he can use a thermometer and a plug that generates electric current to mimic the experiment and make a superconductor since the thermometer contains mercury. Sigorne says that he is wrong. Who should win the argument?
Answer
A
Jeffe, because he has all of the materials to make a superconductor
B
Jeffe, because superconductors are simple to make as long as there is a metal and a current
C
Sigorne, because Jeffe would have to cool the mercury as well
D
Sigorne, because Jeffe can’t use mercury to create a superconductor
Explanation
Sigorne should win because mercury becomes superconducting only when it is cooled below a very low critical temperature, about 4.2 K (−269 °C). Having mercury in a thermometer and a source of electric current is not enough; Jeffe would also need equipment to cool the mercury to that temperature. So choice C is correct: Jeffe would have to cool the mercury as well.
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