While the macroscopic phenomenon of superconductivity is well known and in practical use worldwide in many industries, including MRIs in medical diagnostics, the current theoretical paradigm for superconductivity (BCS theory) suffers from a number of limitations, not the least of which is an adequate explanation of high-temperature superconductivity. This book discusses some of the limitations of the current theory and suggests new ideas and approaches in addressing these issues. The book develops a new, coherent, understandable theory of superconductivity directly based on thermodynamics and molecular quantum mechanics. In the Fermi "contact" theory of superconductivity, if conducting electrons have Fermi "contact", there will be dissipative electron scattering, and no superconductivity.

Dougherty, Ralph; Kimel, J. Daniel

Introduction. Pattern of Elemental Superconductors in the Periodic Table. High-Temperature Superconductors, Tc > 77 K: Electron Spin in Superconductors. Heat Capacity and Magnetic Susceptibility in Superconductors. Quantum Foundations of Molecular Electricity and Magnetism. Metals and Insulators. Electron Transport in Metals. Magnetoresistance. Quantum Hall Effect. Type I Superconductivity. Type II Superconductivity. Conclusions.