Relativistic Theory of Superconductivity

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The relativistic generalization of the theory of superconductivity is reviewed with respect to its conceptual basis and first applications. The construction of relativistically covariant order parameters for superconductors is outlined and the generalization of the Dirac equation for the superconducting state is presented. A weakly relativistic expansion of this equation leads to the Pauli equation for superconductors, which describes the lowest-order relativistic corrections to the conventional theory of superconductivity. The physics of these corrections is discussed, and the prospects for experimental detection of relativistic effects in superconductors are examined.