PX3142: Condensed Matter Physics
School | Cardiff School of Physics & Astronomy |
Department Code | PHYSX |
Module Code | PX3142 |
External Subject Code | 100425 |
Number of Credits | 10 |
Level | L6 |
Language of Delivery | English |
Module Leader | Professor Sean Giblin |
Semester | Autumn Semester |
Academic Year | 2015/6 |
Outline Description of Module
To develop an understanding of some of the more advanced concepts and techniques in condensed matter physics.
To apply this knowledge to solve problems based on the properties of condensed matter systems.
To give an appreciation of the far-reaching implications for condensed matter physics on modern technology.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
Describe defects to crystal lattices and explain the associated physical properties.
Describe how scattering techniques can be used to investigate phonons and magnetic structure.
Explain the differences between crystalline and amorphous materials and their properties.
Demonstrate an understanding of transport (thermal and electronic) properties of solids.
Explain the origin of band structure in solids.
Explain the concept of effective mass and derive an expression for it from a given dispersion relation.
Describe the structure, operation and key parameters of a field effect transistor.
Explain the concept of a Fermi surface and qualitatively describe theory and experiment to determine the shape.
Describe the frequency-dependent electronic properties of metals and dielectrics.
Explain the distinction between metals and insulators.
How the module will be delivered
Lectures 22 x 1 hr, Exercises.
Skills that will be practised and developed
Problem solving. Investigative skills. Mathematics. Analytical skills. Communications skills.
How the module will be assessed
Examination and Continuous Assessment
Assessment Breakdown
Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
---|---|---|---|
Exam - Autumn Semester | 80 | Condensed Matter Physics | 2 |
Written Assessment | 20 | Condensed Matter Physics | N/A |
Syllabus content
Review of crystalline solids and scattering: Space groups, diffraction and missing orders, scattering from time varying structures.
Semiconductors: Doping and energy levels, bandstructure, carrier density, p-n junction (thermal equilibrium), transistors and integrated circuits.
Transport phenomena: Phase and group velocity, effective mass, scattering (phonons, electrons), polaron, Boltzmann equations, heat transport, phonons, electrons, charge transport (Conductivity), electrons, ions, Hall effect and quantum Hall effect, thermoelectric effects.
Phase transitions: Critical points, order parameters, critical exponents.
Dielectric properties: Susceptibility, Kramers Kronig, oscillator model, local field, ferroelectricity, plasmons, polaritons, screening, interband transitions, excitons.
Magnetic properties: Diamagnetism, paramagnetism, ferromagnetism. Measuring M-H loops. Technological uses of magnetic materials.
Superconductivity: Phenomenology, London Equations, BCS theory, Josephson Junctions, high temperature superconductors, applications of superconductivity.
Background Reading and Resource List
Introduction to Solid State Physics, Kittel.
Solid State Physics, Ashcroft and Mermin.
Solid-State Physics, Ibach and Luth.