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PH5024   Modern Topics in Condensed Matter Physics

Academic year(s): 2019-2020

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Available only to those in the final year of an MPhys or MSci programme

Planned timetable: 11.00 am Mon, Tue, Thu

This module links with ongoing research in this area in the School, and includes the rich structural and electronic phases that can be stabilised at surfaces of materials and the physics of strongly correlated electron materials. It also covers some experimental techniques commonly used to characterise these, such as quantum oscillations, angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, and scanning tunnelling microscopy and spectroscopy. There is an emphasis on developing skills in critical reading of the scientific literature, presenting relevant works in class discussions, and performing computations. Tutorial sessions will be used to provide constructive feedback on problem sheets. Full-class discussions in a journal club style will aid in developing understanding of complex topics and critical reading of research papers.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass 4 modules from {PH3061, PH3062, PH4039, PH4044} and ( pass 1 module from {PH3081, PH3082} or pass 2 modules from {MT2506, MT2507} ) and pass 1 module from {PH4037, PH4041} and pass 1 module from {PH3080, PH3082}

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 hours of lectures (x 7 weeks), 1-hour tutorials (x 4 weeks), 3-hour presentations (x 2 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 31

Guided independent study hours: 119

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 70%
Coursework: 30%

Re-assessment: No Re-assessment available - assignment based

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor G P Wahl
Module teaching staff: Prof P Wahl, Prof P King, Dr C Hooley, Dr B Braunecker

Additional information from school

Overview

This module introduces a range of modern topics in condensed matter physics research and theory. It consists of a series of 21 lectures, practical computational examples providing a numerical approach to solving related physics problems and literature research and journal club presentation sessions covering topics of relevance in modern solid state physics research. Topics covered in this module include topologically non-trivial states, Fermi liquid theory, quantum criticality, and many body problems in condensed matter physics as well as the experimental methods to study these phenomena.

 

Aims & Objectives

The primary aim of this module is for students to gain an introduction to some of the most exciting developments of recent years in the area of condensed matter physics. Topics covered include topology, Fermi liquid theory, quantum criticality, many body problems in condensed matter physics and experimental methods to study electronic states.

 

Learning Outcomes

  • An understanding of the topics covered in the module
  • An ability to solve problems using a variety of techniques
  • An understanding of current research topics in solid state physics
  • An ability to critically read scientific literature
  • Undertaking a literature search
  • Basic skills in numerical modelling of physics problems
  • Using a numerical model to understand the physics of a particular problem

 

Synopsis

Topics covered include:

  • Electronic states
  • Fermi liquid theory
  • Landau Levels, Quantum Hall, and Kondo Effects
  • Topology
  • Experimental probes

 

 

Additional information on continuous assessment etc.

Please note that the definitive comments on continuous assessment will be communicated within the module. The oral examination will take place within the examination weeks.

 

Recommended Books

Please view University online record:

http://resourcelists.st-andrews.ac.uk/modules/ph5024.html

 

General Information

Please also read the general information in the School's honours handbook that is available via st-andrews.ac.uk/physics/staff_students/timetables.php.