On completion of this subject the student should be able to:
1. Discuss in detail the theory of lattice vibrations;
2. Explain the physics of excitations in the electron gas;
3. Discuss the various optical electronic excitations in crystals and explain the physics of photoemission spectroscopy;
4. Discuss the BCS theory of superconductivity and its inability to explain high temperature superconduction;
5. Explain the magnetic properties of crystals and the uses of magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Lattice vibrations; Einstein and Debye models of specific heat; The linear lattice, mode counting; Acoustic and optical modes; Phonons; Vibrational spectra of three dimensional lattices; Plasma oscillations in the electron gas; Plasmons; Lectrostatic screening in metals; Metal-insulator transitions; Polaritons; Electron-phonon coupling; Polarons; Optical excitations in solids; Excitons; Frenkel excitons, Mott-Wannier excitons; Exciton condensation; Inelastic scattering, the Raman effect; X-ray photoemission spectroscopy, ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy; ESCA; Superconductivity; Review of experimental results; Influence of magnetic fields, the Meissner effect, type I and II superconductors; The superconducting gap; Isotope effect; Elements of BCS theory; Tunnelling, AC and DC Josephson effects; Introduction to ceramic superconductors; Magnetic phenomena in crystals; Quantum theory of diamagnetism and paramagnetism; Spectroscopic g factor; Susceptibity; Ferromagnetism; Curie point; Magnons; Neutron magnetic scattering; Anti-ferromagnetism; Ferrimagnetism; domain theory; Introduction to magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Kittel, C., Introduction to solid state physics, John Wiley, New York, USA, 2005.
Continuous assessment 40%
Written examination 60% (1×3 hrs.)
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