Posted on Sunday, December 03, 2017
Superconductivity. An Introduction by Philippe Mangin , Rémi Kahn
In Mangin and Kahn's "Superconductivity" there is an overview of the scientist who are/were involved in the discoveries connected to superconductivity.
After the brief historical overview, the reader is presented with the London theory of superconductivity which gives an idea how current in and around superconductors is connected to the electromagnetic field. It is presented in such a way that you go step-by-step from the more general ideas to specific examples. I found the division between the topics and in the chapters very helpful and clear, as you can easily tell what you're reading about, where the specific equations are applicable in that way etc.
In addition to getting familiar with the London theory, the reader can also read about the non-local nature of superconductivity, which is an extension of the London theory.
What I found most interesting were the chapters on thermodynamics of particular types of superconductors. The different phase transitions and their orders are explained there as well.
It's important to note that chapters are followed by appendices that are helpful for understanding the electromagnetic features of the systems described or provide solutions to specific cases.
In "Superconductivity" you can also read about how SQUID magnetometers work, that enable scientists to measure very small magnetic fields.
The book is a well-rounded, complete and student friendly guide to superconductivity. It assumes that the reader is well acquainted with at least undergraduate physics.
Labels: book review