PX2236: Introduction to Condensed Matter Physics

School Cardiff School of Physics & Astronomy
Department Code PHYSX
Module Code PX2236
External Subject Code 100425
Number of Credits 10
Level L5
Language of Delivery English
Module Leader Dr Daniel Read
Semester Spring Semester
Academic Year 2014/5

Outline Description of Module

  • To establish a basic understanding of the fundamental physics underlying the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of condensed matter.
  • To provide an understanding of crystal structure and the behaviour of waves in periodic lattices.
  • To develop an understanding of the behaviour of electrons in the solid state.
  • To establish detailed understanding of the structural, vibrational and electronic properties of solids.

On completion of the module a student should be able to

  • Describe and compare quantitatively the various kinds of bonding in solids.
  • Discuss the application of diffraction to study structural properties.
  • Explain simple models of the heat capacity of solids.
  • Describe the behaviour of electrons in solid insulators, metals, and semiconductors.
  • Describe the main features of and apply theory of the free-electron gas model for metals.
  • Discuss, in qualitative terms, the reasons for the contrasting properties of crystals and amorphous materials.

How the module will be delivered

Lectures 22 x 1 hr, marked exercises.

Skills that will be practised and developed

Problem solving. Investigative skills. Mathematics. Analytical skills.

How the module will be assessed

Examination 80%.  Coursework 20%.  [Examination duration: 2 hours].

Assessment Breakdown

Type % Title Duration(hrs)
Exam - Spring Semester 80 Introduction To Condensed Matter Physics 2
Written Assessment 20 Introduction To Condensed Matter Physics N/A

Syllabus content

  • Crystal structure: Lattice, basis, crystal structure. Simple, body-centred and face-centred cubic lattices. Examples of crystal structures. Hexagonal closed packed lattices.
  • The reciprocal lattice: Definition, reciprocal lattice vectors. Examples. Fourier representation.
  • Bonding and structure: Atomic bonding in inorganic and organic materials. Non-crystalline states of condensed matter: Amorphous solids, liquids.
  • Lattice vibrations: 1D monoatomic and diatomic chain, phase and group velocity, localized modes, phonons, lattice heat capacity. Einstein & Debye model. Dispersion in 3D.
  • Electrons in crystals: Free electron model. Nearly free electron model. Tight binding model. Bloch functions. Zone schemes.
  • Magnetic superconductivity: Properties of the superconducting state. Origins of magnetism in materials. Applications of superconductivity and magnetism.

Essential Reading and Resource List

Please see Background Reading List for an indicative list.

Background Reading and Resource List

Solid State Physics, Hofman.
Introduction to Solid State Physics, C Kittel.
Solid State Physics, Ashcroft and Mermin.


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