Current-phase relation of a superconducting weak link ($I_s(\varphi )$)

The current-phase relation of a superconducting weak link gives its pair electric current $I_s$ as a function of the Gauge-invariant Josephson phase $\varphi$, at specified temperature and other conditions. For the ideal junction used below, $I_s=I_c\sin \varphi$ with $I_c>0$. More general periodic relations can contain higher Fourier harmonics; their maximum magnitude defines the corresponding superconducting critical current.