The phenomenon of zero electrical resistance is a key characteristic of superconductors, referring to the abrupt drop in resistance to zero under specific low-temperature conditions. This means that electric current can flow indefinitely without any loss of energy.
First discovered in 1911 by Dutch physicist Heike Kamerlingh Onnes during experiments, he observed this effect while cooling mercury to the temperature of liquid helium, marking the discovery of superconductivity.
Achieving zero resistance has significant implications for science and technology. For instance, it allows for more efficient energy transmission, as electricity can be transported without energy loss in a superconducting state. Additionally, it has important applications in fields like medical imaging, quantum computing, and high-speed trains.