MIT researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery that challenges our understanding of heat transfer. They found that when heat is introduced into a superfluid gas, it travels through the material in a wave-like pattern, rather than dissipating slowly. This phenomenon, known as “second sound,” occurs at extremely low temperatures and has been observed in helium-4.
Led by experts from MIT and the University of Grenoble Alpes, the researchers created an environment where helium had both superfluid and normal parts, generating friction and rotating structures within the liquid. When heat was injected into this mixture, they detected heat waves traveling at a speed of about 15 meters per second.
This discovery is significant because it can lead to a better understanding of materials known as superconductors, which conduct electricity without losing energy. The researchers hope that their findings will enable them to accurately measure thermal conductivity in these systems and design better technologies. According to Martin Zwierlein, MIT professor of physics and team leader, this study marks the first time scientists can directly observe the transition from a normal fluid to a superfluid, allowing for more precise measurements and potential breakthroughs in materials science.
Source: https://www.marca.com/en/lifestyle/world-news/2025/06/03/683eed0422601d89518b45b2.html