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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2020 - 2021

Module Title Solid State Physics
Module Code PS402
School School of Physical Sciences

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorProf. Colette McDonaghOffice NumberN145
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

The purpose of this module is to provide students with an overview of the principal topics in solid state physics at an advanced undergraduate level. The course is mainly knowledge-based. Other learning activities include solving numerical problems related to the topics covered.

Learning Outcomes

1. Outline and discuss the main topics in solid state physics
2. Identify concepts and/or physical principles which are common across one or more topics
3. Relate the physical principles to topics covered in other modules
4. Apply physical principles and relevant equations in solving numerical problems.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture30An average of 2.5 lectures per week (3 lectures one week and 2 the next, repeated throughout semester)
Tutorial6Tutorial every second week
Independent Study89Studying lecture material, solving numerical problems and doing background reading
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Structure of materials
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.

Waves in solids
Introduce the concept of a wave propagating in a lattice, apply this concept to x-ray diffraction and lattice vibrations. Phonon heat capacity. Phonon thermal conductivity.

Band theory
Introduction to band theory in solids

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 properties
Optical and dielectrical properties of solids

Selected current topics in solid state/condensed matter physics
If time permits, a brief introduction to one or more selected topics of strong current interest will be given (e.g. topological insulators, graphene etc.). The choice will be informed by considerations such as recent Nobel prize awards in the area.

Learning activities
Students are expected to attend lectures and tutorials and to prepare for both by appropriate study. This will include using books and online loop and other resources.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment20% Examination Weight80%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • M. Ali Omar: 0, Introductory Solid State Physics,
  • A. M. Fox: 0, Optical Properties of Solids, Oxford University Press,
  • J. Singleton: 0, Band Theory and Electronic Properties of Solids, Oxford University Press,
  • M. T. Dove: 0, Structure and Dynamics, Oxford University Press,
  • H. M. Rosenberg: 0, The Solid State,
  • J.R. Hook and H.E. Hall: 0, Introductory Solid State Physics,
  • C. Kittel: 0, Introduction to Solid State Physics,
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
APBSc in Applied Physics
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