The results of experimental studies of magnetic flux dynamics in finite-size superconductors, obtained using integral and local measurements methods, are presented. Local methods were aimed at clarifying the role of the demagnetizing factor in the dynamic formation of a complex magnetic structure of the critical state of hard superconductors. To understand the reasons for drastic transformation of the magnetic induction, we further analyzed the literature data on the visualization of flux dynamics in the presence of avalanches, obtained by magneto-optical methods. New features in the behavior of the magnetic flux during and after an avalanche were revealed and characterized: two stages in the formation of the magnetic induction distribution inside the avalanche region were established—homogeneous and heterogeneous filling with magnetic flux; the mechanism of inversion of the induction profile; velocity oscillations in the propagating magnetic flux front; transformation of the critical state band near the edge of the sample; and the role of the thermal effects and demagnetizing factor in the dissipative flux dynamics. The generalized information allowed us to present, within the framework of the Bean concept, a model of the transformation of the patterns of magnetic induction in the critical state and superconducting currents in a finite superconductor occurring as a result of flux avalanches in two different regimes—shielding and trapping of magnetic flux.

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In this work we numerically modelled a periodic magnetic flux pattern which qualitatively reproduces the so-called sand avalanches scenario in type-II superconductors. To model these sand-pile patterns we consider a perturbation on the critical current which, as a first approximation, follows a periodic function which depends on the position.

The evolution of flux distribution in MgB 2 single crystals during their remagnetization was imaged with magneto-optical technique. Meissner holes, formed as the areas where the annihilation of vortices and antivortices takes place, were found at the boundary between oppositely magnetized parts of the crystal. Gradient of magnetic induction in the vicinity of Meissner holes was found to be enhanced. Finger-like structures of convex shape, formed during the penetration of magnetic flux inside the crystal, were observed and explained as an effect of inhomogeneous pinning and demagnetizing field redistribution in the sample.