Solid State Physics for Natural Science

Code

PHYS4023

School

Physics and Astronomy

Level

4

Credits

20

Semesters

Full Year UK

Summary

This module will provide a general introduction to solid state physics. Topics to be covered will include:

1. Bonding -  nature of chemical bonds, thermodynamics of solid formation
2. Crystal structures - description of crystal structures, k-space, reciprocal lattice, Bragg diffraction, Brillouin zones 
3. Free electron model - electrical and thermal conductivity, heat capacity, Hall effect, plasma frequency 4. Nearly-free electron model - Bloch's theorem, band gaps from electron Bragg scattering, effective masses
5. Band theory - Fermi surfaces, qualitative picture of transport, metals, insulators and semiconductors
6. Semiconductors -  – intrinsic semiconductors, doping, inhomogeneous semiconductors, basic description of pn junction
7. Phonons - normal modes of ionic lattice, quantization, Debye theory of heat capacities, acoustic and optical phonons, neutron scattering
8. Optical properties of solids - absorption and reflection of light by metals, Brewster angle, dielectric constants, plasma oscillations
9. Magnetism.- Diamagnetism, paramagnetism, Ferromagnetism, antiferromagnetism, neutron scattering, dipolar interactions and domain formation, magnetic, magnetic anisotropy. 
10. Superconductivity - type I and type II superconductors, zero resistance and superconducting critical current, Meissner effect and perfect diamagnetism, thermodyncamics of superconductors, microscopic theory, Londeon penetration length, coherence length, flux quantization.  
 

Target Students

Only available to students taking Part III of the Natural Science programme

Assessment

• 25% Coursework 1: Problem Sheets
• 75% Exam 1 (3-hour): Wrriten Exam (In-person)

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

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
 

Conveners

• Dr James O'Shea