BCS theory

noun

1. Physics.,  a general quantum theory of superconductivity that describes many properties of superconducting materials.

Word History and Origins

Origin of BCS theory¹

After U.S. physicists J. Bardeen, Leon N. Cooper (born 1930), and John R. Schrieffer (born 1929)

Example Sentences

Until recently, BCS theory and DFT -- one describing electron pairing, the other rooted in quantum mechanics -- were treated separately.

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The classic BCS theory successfully explains superconductors that operate only at very low temperatures, but fails for high-temperature varieties, where Cooper pairs break apart more easily.

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He asserts that Hirsch isn’t an expert in high-pressure physics and that he has a history of claiming that the Nobel Prize–winning “BCS theory” underlying superconductivity is incorrect.

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It means that I am motivated to scrutinize carefully the experimental evidence and judge it on its merits, as opposed to assuming it is likely to be right because BCS theory predicts it to be right, as everybody else does.”

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Hirsch counters that his belief that the BCS theory is incorrect “does not mean I am ‘biased’ or not ‘impartial.’

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