Physics of the Solid State

Overview

Periodicity and symmetry, basic crystallographic definitions, packing of atomic planes, crystal structures, the reciprocal lattice, diffraction from crystals, Bragg condition and Ewald sphere.
Lattice waves and dispersion relations, phonons, Brillouin zones, heat capacity, density of vibrational states, Einstein and Debye models of heat capacity, thermal conductivity, thermal expansion and anharmonicity.
Concepts related to phase transitions in materials such as: free energy, enthalpy, entropy, order parameter, classification of phase transitions, Landau theory.
Electronic band structure, including: failures of classical model for metals and semiconductors, free electron gas description of metals, density of states, Fermi Dirac statistics, electronic heat capacity, development of band structure, prediction of intrinsic semiconducting behaviour, doping

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to:

Recognise and define the fundamental concepts used to describe properties of the solid state such as simple crystal structures and symmetries, diffraction and the reciprocal lattice, vibrational and thermal properties, phase changes, and electrical properties, and to demonstrate conceptual understanding of these concepts.

Show how relevant theoretical models can be developed to establish properties of materials and explain how these have been exploited in technological devices.

Plan, execute and report the results of an experiment or investigation, and compare results critically with predictions from theory

Skills

Problem solving. Searching for and evaluating information from a range of sources. Written communication of scientific concepts in a clear and concise manner. Working independently and meeting deadlines.

Assessment

None.