PH4039
Introduction to Condensed Matter Physics
2018-2019
15
7
SCQF level 10
1
Academic year(s): 2018-2019
SCOTCAT credits : 15
ECTS credits : 7
Level : SCQF level 10
Semester: 1
Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students
Planned timetable:
This module explores how the various thermal and electrical properties of solids are related to the nature and arrangement of their constituent atoms. For simplicity, emphasis is given to crystalline solids. The module covers: the quantum-mechanical description of electron motion in crystals; the origin of band gaps and insulating behaviour; the reciprocal lattice and the Brillouin zone, and their relationships to X-ray scattering measurements; the band structures and Fermi surfaces of simple tight-binding models; the Einstein and Debye models of phonons, and their thermodynamic properties; low-temperature transport properties of insulators and metals, including the Drude model; the physics of semiconductors, including doping and gating; the effect of electron-electron interactions, including a qualitative account of Mott insulators; examples of the fundamental theory applied to typical solids.
Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass PH3081 or pass PH3082 or ( pass MT2506 and pass MT2507 ) and ( pass PH3061 or pass CH3712 )
Co-requisite(s): You must also take PH3061 or take PH3082 or take PH3081
Weekly contact: 3 lectures or tutorials
Scheduled learning hours: 34
Guided independent study hours: 116
As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 80%, Coursework = 20%
As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 80%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 20%
Re-assessment: Oral Re-assessment, capped at grade 7
Please see also the information in the School¿s Handbook for Honours modules available via https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/physics/staff_students/timetables.php
This link also gives access to timetables for the modules.