PHSCS 581

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Solid-State Physics

Physics and Astronomy College of Computational, Mathematical, & Physical Sciences

Course Description

Introduction to the physics of solids. Crystal structure and symmetry, X-ray diffraction, lattice vibrations, metals and semiconductors, superconductivity, thermal properties, magnetic properties, and dielectric and optical properties.

When Taught

Fall

Min

3

Fixed/Max

3

Fixed

3

Fixed

0

Other Prerequisites

Phscs 222 or equivalent

Title

Basic Concepts in Condensed Matter Physics

Learning Outcome

Explain the following basic concepts underlying the topics in solid state physics: (1) crystal symmetry, (2) reciprocal lattice and the first Brillouin zone in k-space, and (3) the quantum behavior of electrons, Pauli's exclusion principle, and the Fermi-Dirac distribution function.

Title

Physical Properties of Solids

Learning Outcome

Use these basic concepts to explain crystal structure, x-ray diffraction, lattice vibrations, behavior of electrons in metals and semiconductors, and thermal, magnetic, dielectric and optical properties of materials.

Title

Solve Problems

Learning Outcome

Show their understanding of these topics and their underlying concepts by solving problems using a variety of mathematical tools.