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Distribution function in nonequilibrium states of a superconductor

Journal Article · · Phys. Rev. Lett.; (United States)
We report the first measurements of the distribution function f of quasiparticles in a nonequilibrium superconductor. For a wide range of quasiparticle-injection energies, f (E) approx. = (1 + exp((E-..mu..*)/kT*))/sup -1/, where ..mu..* and T* depend on the injection energy. Novel results include a negative ..mu..*, a T* greater than the transition temperature, and a totally unanticipated bump in f at an energy of 3..delta.., where ..delta.. is the energy gap. This last result shows that detailed balance is violated in nonequilibrium states.
Research Organization:
Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, Illinois 60439
OSTI ID:
6671732
Journal Information:
Phys. Rev. Lett.; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Rev. Lett.; (United States) Vol. 41:12; ISSN PRLTA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English