Solid State Physics (FYS540)

The course gives an introduction to solid state physics.

Structure and crystallography: Bravais-lattice, unit cells, crystal systems, point groups and space groups. Defects.

Band-theory: Quantum mechanical foundation, Kronig-Penney model, density of states, calculations.

Quasiparticles: excitones, metals and Fermi-gas, semi-conductors, quantum confinement, quasi particles in magnetic fields.

Quantized waves: phonons, coherent states, energy density

Interaction of quasi particles: phonons, photons and/or electrons; thermal and electrical conduction.

Complex susceptibility: dielectric systems, Krames-Kronig relations, polaritones, optics.

Spin and magnetic system: magnetic structures, Ising model, critical fluctuations, domains, spin-waves, spin-spin interactions.

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

After completing the course, the student should:

• K1 Apply fundamental crystallographic concepts to describe solid state materials
• K2 Being able to decribe the band-concept and link it to the properties of solid state materials
• F1 use the quantization-concept to describe transport properties and interactions of quasi-particles.
• K3 Have obtained insight into dielectric and magnetic systems, and fundamental interactions within these.

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

Language of instruction: English.