Learning objectives
To achieve a good basic knowledge of the principles and theories of condensed matter physics
Prerequisites
Good knowledge of classical and basic quantum physics
Course unit content
Crystal Structures and Crystal Binding
Periodic array of atoms, fundamental types of lattices, diffraction of waves by crystals, diffraction techniques in crystallography: X rays, electrons, neutrons, Bragg condition and Laue equations, reciprocal lattice and Brillouin Zones, classification of Bravais lattices, Van der Waals-London interactions, ionic crystals, covalent crystals, metals, hydrogen bond, elastic constants.
Atomic Dynamics in Crystals and Thermal Properties
Vibrations of crystals, quantization of lattice vibrations, phonons and the density of states, phonon inelastic scattering and measurement of dispersion curves, thermal properties: thermal capacity, anharmonic effects, thermal conductivity.
Electronic States in Solids
Beyond the free electron model, energy bands, Bloch theorem, classification of crystalline solids: metals, insulators, semiconductors.
Semiconductors
Electrons and holes, donor and acceptor states, transport properties (Hall effect, cyclotron resonance), thermoelectric effects, semiconductor devices.
Metals
Energy bands and Fermi surface, experimental determination of the Fermi surface, dielectric function for the electron gas, plasmons, polaritons, electron-electron and electron-phonon interactions, Mott transition.
Insulators
Dielectrics, ferroelectrics, soft modes and structural transitions, optical processes, excitons.
Magnetism in solids
Diamagnetism and paramagnetism, ferro- antiferro- and ferri-magnetic ordering, spin waves, magnetic domains, resonance techniques: ESR,NMR, NQR, Mössbauer.
Superconduttivity
Properties of superconductors, type-I and type-II superconductors, theories of superconductivity: London equation, BCS theory, Josephson effect.
Elementary Excitations
Second quantization: states, operators, Hamiltonians; bosons and fermions; examples of applications
Bibliography
Introduction to Solid State Physics, 8th Edition
C. Kittel (2005 - John Wiley & Sons)
Solid State Physics
N.W. Ashcroft, N.D. Mermin (1987 - Mc Graw Hill)
Solid State Physics
H. Ibach, H. Lüth (2003 - Springer)
Condensed Matter Physics
M.P. Marder
John Wiley & sons Inc. (2000)
Teaching methods
Class lectures and class problems. periodic test sessions during the semester.
Assessment methods and criteria
Written and oral exams. All written exams are open-book and open-note exams
