Solid State Physics (PHAS0041) 90% Exam, 10% Coursework
'This module aims to lay a secure foundation for the understanding of the underlying principles
of the structure of crystalline solids, determination of their structures, and to establish an
understanding of the relationships between structure and thermal, mechanical, electronic and
magnetic properties.
Aims:
To show how the diverse properties (structural, electronic, magnetic) of solid materials can be
related to interactions at the atomistic level, using theoretical models.
Provide a foundation for the advanced condensed matter options in the third and fourth years.
To show how the study of condensed matter plays a vital part both in other areas of physics
and, more generally in science, technology and industry.
• describe simple structures in terms of a lattice and unit cell, understand the concept of
reciprocal space and its utility in the interpretation of diffraction data and more generally for
understanding the propagation of waves in periodic media.
• understand the basic features of the coupled modes of oscillation of atoms in a crystal lattice
using the one-dimensional chain as a model and relate crystal properties (specific heat, thermal
conductivity) to the behaviour of these oscillations.
• appreciate the strengths and weaknesses of the free electron model and explain the effect of
the lattice on the behaviour of electrons in solids both from the point of view of the nearly-free
electron model and the tight-binding model.
• explain the basic features of semiconductors and relate this to simple semiconductor devices
starting with the PN junction.
• understand the origin and classification of the magnetism of solids (paramagnetic,
ferromagnetic, antiferromagnetic) including the development of mean-field theories where
appropriate.
• explain the basic thermodynamic properties of superconductors and form an appreciation of
the components of the microscopic theory that explains their behaviour.
Indicative Topics:
1. Crystal structures
2. Reciprocal space and diffraction
3. Lattice dynamics and phonons
