Introduction to Solid State Physics
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| PHYS3002 | Physics and Astronomy | 3 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- PHYS3002
- School
- Physics and Astronomy
- Level
- 3
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
This module will provide a general introduction to solid state physics. Topics to be covered will include:
- Bonding - nature of chemical bonds, thermodynamics of solid formation
- Crystal structures - description of crystal structures, k-space, reciprocal lattice, Bragg diffraction, Brillouin zones
- Free electron model - electrical and thermal conductivity, heat capacity, Hall effect, plasma frequency
- Nearly-free electron model - Bloch's theorem, band gaps from electron Bragg scattering, effective masses
- Band theory - Fermi surfaces, qualitative picture of transport, metals, insulators and semiconductors
- Semiconductors - intrinsic semiconductors, doping, inhomogeneous semiconductors, basic description of pn junction
- Phonons - normal modes of ionic lattice, quantization, Debye theory of heat capacities, acoustic and optical phonons, neutron scattering
- Optical properties of solids - absorption and reflection of light by metals, Brewster angle, dielectric constants, plasma oscillations
- Magnetism - diamagnetism, paramagnetism, ferromagnetism, antiferromagnetism, dipolar interactions and domain formation, magnetic anisotropy
- Superconductivity - type I and type II superconductors, zero resistance and superconducting critical current, Meissner effect and perfect diamagnetism, thermodynamics of superconductors, microscopic theory, London penetration length, coherence length, flux quantization
Target Students
Students on Year 3 of Physics or Mathematical Physics or Chemistry and Molecular Physics or Natural Sciences degree programmes.
Classes
This module is based on a series of lectures supplemented by workshops.
Assessment
- 5% Coursework 1: Coursework 1
- 5% Coursework 2: Coursework 2
- 5% Coursework 3: Coursework 3
- 5% Coursework 4: Coursework 4
- 80% Exam 1 (3-hour)
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
This module aims to provide physics students with a general introduction to the important field of solid state physics.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding:
On successful completion of the module, students will have enhanced their:
- A1 knowledge of solid state physics
- A2 knowledge and understanding of the scientific method
- A3 understanding of how the basic principles of solid state physics are applied in a range of situations
- A4 knowledge of the methods of quantum and statistical physics for the analysis of physical problems
Intellectual Skills:
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
- B1 apply theoretical ideas to the quantitative analysis of physical situations
- B2 apply high levels of numeracy and analysis
- B3 apply techniques of problem solving
Professional/Practical Skills:
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
- C1 formulate problems in solid state physics using appropriate mathematical language
Transferable/Key Skills:
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
- D1 develop appropriate strategies for study, including the use of library, human, and electronic sources of information