Course

Solid State Physics (FYS540)

Facts

Course code FYS540

Credits (ECTS) 10

Semester tution start Autumn

Language of instruction English, Norwegian

Number of semesters 1

Exam semester Autumn

Time table View course schedule

Literature Search for literature in Leganto

Introduction

The course covers the basic physical principles underlying matter's structure, dynamics and functionality in its solid state form.

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 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

None

Recommended prerequisites

Quantum Mechanics (FYS320), Micro Physics (FYS330), Statistical Physics (FYS340)

Exam

Oral exam

Weight 2/3

Duration 30 Minutes

Marks Letter grades

Aid None permitted

Report

Weight 1/3

Marks Letter grades

Oral exam and and report

Weight 1/1

Marks Letter grades

The report is written individually.

There is no re-sit report. Students who do not pass can take this part again, next time the course has regular teaching.

Method of work

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

Language of instruction: English.

Open for

Admission to Single Courses at Master Level at the Faculty of Science and Technology
Mathematics and Physics - Master Mathematics and Physics - Master

Admission requirements

Must meet the admission requirements of one of the study programmes the course is open for.

Course assessment

The faculty decides whether early dialogue will be held in all courses or in selected groups of courses. The aim is to collect student feedback for improvements during the semester. In addition, a digital course evaluation must be conducted at least every three years to gather students’ experiences.

Contact

Head of Department:
Bjørn Henrik Auestad
Course coordinator:
Olena Zavorotynska

Offered by

Faculty of Science and Technology

Department of Mathematics and Physics

The course description is retrieved from FS (Felles studentsystem). Version 1