Exploring TaS2 and YBa2Cu3O7-δ : Exotic Materials of Physics

Abstract

Methods of measurement of TaS2 (Tantrum Disulfide) and YBa2Cu3O7-δ (Yttrium Barium Copper Oxide) samples to reveal their physical properties and introduce the physical models producing their characteristics were explored to make them accessible to undergraduate students in Modern Physics Laboratory Course. The process included measurements of the resistivity of the samples as a function of temperature as well as preparation of the samples. For YBCO samples, the induced voltage of a hand-made transformer with an YBCO sample placed between the coils was also measured. During experiments, resonance and polarity problems were found and suspected to stem from the cryostat in use. Future resistivity measurements, particularly on an YBCO sample, are planned to be made with a different cryostat to try to eliminate the problems. In addition, the measurements of a TaS2 sample showed hysteresis, which is expected to disappear if the same measurement is made with the sample and thermometer placed closer to each other. Furthermore, a permanent two-coil assembly is planned to be manufactured. Lastly, it is of interest to probe how different the hysteresis would be if TaS2 sample were set to start warming up before their transitions had ended while cooling.