Learning outcomes

- Understand the great diversity of properties of solids.

- Establish the link between the microscopic (quantum and atomic) and macroscopic (measurable, applications) properties of periodic solids, in particular with regard to electrical and thermal conductivity, magnetic and optical properties while perceiving the domain of validity of the different models.

Goals

Model the physical properties of a solid based on the laws of quantum mechanics, electromagnetism and statistical physics.

Content

The course provides a general introduction to the physics of solids and materials. It shows the limits of a classical description of matter and makes the link between a microscopic (atomic) and quantum description and the macroscopic properties of solids. The consequences on electronic and thermal conductivity and optical properties are highlighted. Similarly, links to known properties (metal, insulator, etc.) and material-based technologies, such as semiconductors, are presented.

Table of contents

I. Bonds in Solids


II. Electrons in a Crystal

Drude's Theory of Metals

Electronic Hamiltonian and Hartree Equations

Sommerfeld's Quantum Approach

Electrons in a Periodic Potential

Semiconductors Optical and Dielectric Properties


III. Normal Vibration Modes and Phonons

Vibration in a Solid

Quantization of Vibrations: Phonons

Macroscopic Properties Due to Vibrations

Optical Properties and Experimental Methods


IV. Magnetism


V. Nanomaterials

Teaching methods

Lectures and pratice.

Assessment method

The course evaluation is broken down as follows:


  • 40% of the grade is based on an in-session theory exam (oral with 45 minutes of written preparation);
  • 40% on an in-session practice exam;
  • 20% on an assignment to be completed during the semester (due no later than two weeks before the practice exam date);


A minimum grade of 6/20 is required for each assessment (an absorbing grade).


Students will be judged on their ability to make the connection between microscopic and macroscopic phenomena, as well as their ability to critically examine the limitations of the various models covered in the course (theoretical exam), while being able to apply these models to real-life problems (practice exam and individual assignment).

Sources, references and any support material

Références principales

Physique des Solides. N.W. Ashcroft, D. Mermin. EDP Sciences 2002

Band Theory and Electronic Properties of Solids. J. Singleton 2001. Oxford University Press

The oxford Solid State Basics.  S.H. Simon. Oxford University Press 2013

 

Autres références

Introduction to Solid State Physics. C. Kittel. Wiley . Version française'Physique de l'Etat Solide'. Dunod 2007

Condensed Matter Physics. M.P. Marder. Ed. J. Wiley & Sons New-York 2000 

Physique des matériaux Collection : traité des matériaux. Vol 8. M. Gerl, J.P. Issi. Presses Polytechniques et Universitaires Romandes 1997 (

Solide State Physics. Principles and Modern Applications J.J. Quinn, K-S Yi. Springer 2009 (Dpt Phys)

 

Language of instruction

French
Training Study programme Block Credits Mandatory
Bachelor in Physics Standard 0 4
Bachelor in Physics Standard 3 4