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quantization of magnetic flux

physics
Also known as: flux quantization, magnetic-flux quantization

Quick Summary

In physics, magnetic flux quantization refers to the phenomenon where magnetic flux within a superconductor is restricted to discrete, quantized values. This occurs because superconducting electrons behave as a single, coherent quantum mechanical wave function.1

The intensity of the trapped magnetic flux can only change by specific units, defined as Planck's constant divided by twice the electron charge. In type II superconductors, when a magnetic field enters, it does so in the form of quantized fluxoids, each carrying one quantum of flux. These fluxoids can move if a large enough current is applied, leading to energy dissipation.1

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