Vortex Lattice of a Layered High-Temperature Superconductor in a Nonuniform Temperature Field.

The Monte Carlo method was used in a 2D model of layered HTSC to explore the dynamics of a vortex lattice in the presence of a nonuniform temperature field. Vortex configurations in a superconductor with a "thermal spot" have been found. The characteristic size of the region in which melting of the vortex lattice is observed is shown to exceed the characteristic size of the thermal spot. The possibility of directional movement of vortices by means of a temperature gradient is demonstrated in a numerical calculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]