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Module Title |
Solid State Physics
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Module Code |
PS402
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School |
School of Physical Sciences
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Online Module Resources
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| Module Co-ordinator | Prof Martin Henry | Office Number | |
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Level |
4
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Credit Rating |
0
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Pre-requisite |
None
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Co-requisite |
None
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Module Aims
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In this module emphasis is placed on the use of simple energy band theory to explain the properties of solids. The limitations of the free electron model are discussed. More realistic models of solids that take into account the interactions that occur between electrons and the positive ion cores are developed leading to the concept of electron band structure.
Simple band structure models are then used to explain the electrical, thermal, optical, dielectric and magnetic properties of metals, semiconductors and insulators. The experimental methods used to measure these properties and their application to optoelectronic and microelectronic devices are discussed.
The third part of the module will cover either low-dimensional systems, magnetic properties of materials or superconductivity. The selected topic will largely be treated in a phenomenological manner.
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Learning Outcomes
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On completing this module the student should be able to:
o Describe the crystal structure of solids in terms of a space lattice + unit cell
o Discuss the electrical, thermal and optical properties in terms of the free electron model
o Understand the concept of a band structure, and be able to distinguish between metals, semiconductors and insulators on the basis of their energy band schemes. Explain the concepts of the reciprocal lattice and the Brillouin zone.
o Discuss the optical, thermal, electrical and magnetic properties of solids in terms of their band structure and explain how these properties are used in a variety of optoelectronic and microelectronic devices
o Have a basic understanding of either Low-Dimensional Structures or Superconductivity.
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Indicative Time Allowances
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Hours
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Lectures |
36
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Tutorials |
6
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Laboratories |
0
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Seminars |
0
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Independent Learning Time |
33
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Total |
75
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Placements |
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Assignments |
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NOTE
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Assume that a 0 credit module load represents approximately 75 hours' work, which includes all teaching, in-course assignments, laboratory work or other specialised training and an estimated private learning time associated with the module.
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Indicative Syllabus
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The Structure of Materials will introduce the concepts of space lattice, unit cells, crystal systems; Miller Indices and the reciprocal lattice. The determination of crystal structure by X-ray and Neutron diffraction.
Introductory Band Theory of Solids: Properties of free electron solids and limitations of this theory.Electrons in
a periodic potential, Bloch's theorem; Brillouin zones for simple crystal structures; Nearly free electron model. E(k) plots; The concept of effective mass; Metals, semiconductors and insulators, band structures of real metals. Dynamics of Bloch electrons. Collisions of electrons in solids,
relaxation times and mean free paths.
Electrical properties:Temperature and frequency dependence of the electrical conductivity. Matthiessen's Rule.
Magnitoresistance and the Hall effect. The Kondo Effect.
Thermal Properties: Phonons and lattice vibrations. Temperature dependence of the thermal conductivity. Thermoelectric effects.
Optical and Dielectric properties: Optical properties. Band structure determination from optical measurements,
Photo- and electroluminescence. Dielectric constant and susceptibility.
* Magnetic Properties of Materials: Paramagnetism, diamagnetism, ferromagnetism, antiferromagnetism. Types of magnetic material. Magnetic recording materials. Magneto-optic recording.
* Low-Dimensional Systems: The two dimensional electron gas. The Quantum Hall effect. Resonant Tunnelling Devices.
** Superconductivity: The Meissner effect, Heat capacity, The London Equation. BCS Theory. Flux Quantization, Josephson Effect. High Temperature Superconductors. The SQUID magnetometer.
*Note that only one of these topics will be presented each time the module is offered.
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| Assessment | | Continuous Assessment | 20% | Examination Weight | 80% |
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Indicative Reading List
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1) Electrons in Metals and Semiconductors B.K.Tanner.
2) Electrons in Solids D.Jiles.
3) Electronic Properties of Materials H.P.Myers.
4) Introductory Solid State Physics J.R.Hook and H.E.Hall.
5) Solid State Physics H.M.Rosenberg
6) The Solid State R.G.Chambers.
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Programme or List of Programmes
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| AP | BSc in Applied Physics |
| Archives: | |
