Admission requirements
Prior knowledge of Statistical Physics 1, Quantum Mechanics 2.
It is to be expected that the student will take Quantum Mechanics 2 simultaneously. The topics of Fermi-Dirac and Bose-Einstein statistics, densities of states and the free electron gas are covered in Quantum Mechanics 2 before they are needed in Introdcution Solid State Physics.
Description
This course provides an introduction to Solid State Physics: the physics of matter in the solid state.
In this course, you will learn to understand the material world around you. Therefore, the course is (at this stage of the physics bachelor program) the most relevant physics course that is offered. First steps are taken towards the insight that you can find the universe in a grain of rust!
This subfield of condensed matter physics is both applied (e.g., in electronics) and fundamental.
Quantum mechanics and statistical physics come together in this field.
Specific topics are:
the heat capacity of solids
electrons in metals
structure of materials
geometry of solids (crystal lattices)
waves in crystals (the reciprocal lattice)
Finally, the course will connect in a qualitative way to modern topics of research in Solid State Physics, that are often only partially understood: (high-temperature) superconductivity, metal-insulator transitions, quantum Hall effects, topological matter.
Course objectives
On completing this course you will be able to perform calculations and derivations within a big variety of topics concerning the structure and properties of solids. You will be able to answer questions regarding these topics in your own words.
In particular, you will be able to apply these skills to the following topics:
why and how a classical description of atoms and electrons (Boltzmann, Drude theory) needs to be replaced by a quantummechanical description (Einstein/Debye, Sommerfeld theory)
why and how lattice vibrations (phonons) and electrons contribute to the heat capacity of materials
(three-dimensional) crystals in terms of lattices (unit cells) and reciprocal lattices (Brillouin zones)
waves in lattices and scattering of waves from lattices
electrons in a periodic potential (Bloch theorem, band structure, metal vs. insulator)
This course prepares you for the third year elective course The Electronic Structure of Solids.
Schedule
The timetables are available through My Timetable (see the button in the upper right corner).
Teaching method
Lectures, problem sessions, homework.
For more information see Brightspace
Assesment method
Written exam (closed book) with open questions. Proper participation in the problem sessions and handing in homework assignments can earn you a bonus of maximally 1 grade point on top of the exam grade.
Resit, review & feedback
Examinations are held twice during the academic year for each component offered in that academic year. Midterm tests cannot be retaken. The Board of Examiners determines the manner of resit for practical assignments.
For review and feedback, see Brightspace.
Reading list
Textbook: The Oxford Solid State Basics – Steven H. Simon (Oxford University Press, 1st edition, 2013, reprint 2016) (mandatory), ISBN 978-0-19-968077-1 (Pbk.). This book is also used in the third year elective course The Electronic Structure of Solids
Registration
Enrolment through MyStudyMap (button in upper right corner) is mandatory. General information about course and exam enrolment is available on the website.
Contact
For substantive questions, contact the lecturer(s) (listed in the right information bar).
Remarks
Software
Starting from the 2024/2025 academic year, the Faculty of Science will use the software distribution platform Academic Software. Through this platform, you can access the software needed for specific courses in your studies. For some software, your laptop must meet certain system requirements, which will be specified with the software. It is important to install the software before the start of the course. More information about the laptop requirements can be found on the student website.