The Second Law, Symmetry of Time Reversal and Thermodynamic Equilibrium in Superconductors

Abstract

The Second law, universally applicable to all states of all sorts of matter and radiation, is undeniably the brightest jewel in the tiara of laws of thermodynamics; recall that the achievements of this law include the principle of least action, the atomistic structure of matter, the quantization of radiant heat, and much more. However, there is a significant gap in understanding the application of the Second law to magnetizing materials, especially to superconductors. This communication is targeted to fill the gap. The concepts of equilibrium and reversibility in thermodynamic processes are considered with particular attention to specifics of superconductivity. These include (1) the primary role of the field strength $\textbf{H}$ in forming magnetization; (2) the zero entropy of samples in a state of thermodynamic equilibrium; and (3) two kinds of superconducting currents in samples out of equilibrium. As shown, time reversal symmetry in superconductors is a consequence of the Second law and, therefore, is a mandatory property of these materials in a state of equilibrium. Necessary conditions for achieving the latter are framed out. Awareness of these aspects is important for advancing research on superconductivity in all kinds of superconducting materials.