Solid State Physics (FYS540)

Content

1. Lattices (atomic arrangements in solids): Crystal systems, Bravais lattice, unit Cell, crystallographic axis, angles, lattice parameters. X-ray diffraction.

2. Crystal binding (bonds): Forces at play, Ionic, covalent, metallic, hydrogen bonds

3. Lattice dynamics (phonons): Monoatomic, two atoms, harmonic/anharmonic, quantum mechanical, lattice heat capacity, thermal conductivity

4. Electrons (e charge): Free electron fermi gas, energy bands, fermi surfaces, electric properties, electric excitations

5. Magnetism (spin and orbitals): Spin-orbit coupling, magnetic exchange interactions, paramagnetism and long-range magnetic order, phase transitions, and magnetic excitations.

6. In practical terms: Functionality. Overview of experimental methods.

Note that the exam language will be the same as the teaching language.

Learning outcome

After completing the course, the student should:

• F1 be able to describe atomic positions and symmetries in solid-state materials by using the crystallographic notation.
• F2 be able to use diffraction methods to determine interatomic spacings.
• K1 have a good understanding of the band concept and how this is used in the description and characterization of electronic properties
• F3 be able to use the quantization concept to describe transport properties
• K2 recognize the degrees of freedom at play behind magnetic properties in solids

Required prerequisite knowledge

Recommended prerequisites

Exam

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Head of Department:

Method of work

4 hours of lecture per week and 2 hours of practice lessons

Language of instruction: English.

Open for

Course assessment

Literature