Superconducting State and Phase Transitions

TL;DR

This paper clarifies the relationship between superconducting states, crystal structures, and phase transitions, resolving longstanding confusions and misconceptions in the field.

Contribution

It provides a clear and definitive analysis of the connections between superconductivity, crystal structure, and phase transition types.

Findings

Clarifies the nature of superconducting phase transitions.

Resolves confusion regarding structural identity of phases.

Provides a unified understanding of superconductivity and phase transitions.

Abstract

From the days when superconductivity was discovered its science was entangled by the unresolved problem of the relationship between superconductive state, its crystal structure and its phase transitions. The problem was exacerbated by the adjacent scientific area - solid state phase transitions - that offered to divide phase transitions into first and second order. Adding to that the conclusion (turned out erroneous)on the structural identity of the superconductor and normal phases, the whole issue was uncertain and confusing. This article straights it out.