Winter 1999                                                 Department of Physics

Physics 152 - Introduction to Condensed Matter Physics

Instructor:     Jorge E. Hirsch, 5306 Mayer Hall, Ext. 4-3931, jhirsch@ucsd.edu
Secretary :     Cathy Reddiconto, 4122 Mayer Hall, Ext. 4-5924. 
Lectures  :     Tu/Th  9:35-10:55, WLH 2207.
Disc.sect.:    Tu    1:25-2:15, Center 204
Office hours:   Mon, Wed, 11-12
Web page:http://www-physics.ucsd.edu/~phy152

Textbook:                 H. P. Myers, Introductory Solid State Physics


Other recommended books: 
(on reserve at S&E)          C. Kittel, Introduction to Solid State Physics 
                             H. Ibach and H. Luth, Solid State Physics 
                             N. Ashcroft and D. Mermin, Solid State Physics
                             P.A. Cox, The Electronic Structure and Chemistry of Solids.

Course description:

This is an introductory course in solid state physics. No previous knowledge of the subject is assumed. However it
will be useful to be familiar with quantum mechanics and some statistical physics. The course aims at providing a
broad overview of various solid state phenomena, providing an understanding of the basic principles that determine these phenomena, and illustrating various applications of these phenomena in technology. We will learn what holds solids together, and how the quantum-mechanical laws obeyed by the ions and electrons in the solid determine their mechanical, thermal,  electrical, optical and magnetic properties. We will also learn about various experimental techniques to probe the properties of solids. We will learn about the physics of specific classes of materials such as semiconductors, superconductors, and magnetic systems, and how these materials are used in applications, and we will discuss the challenges that lie ahead.
 

Tentative syllabus:

Week                Topics                         Chpts in text

1                    Periodic table, classes of solids, binding                   1
2                    Crystal  lattices                                                           2
3                    Reciprocal lattice, X-ray diffraction                           3
4                    Lattice vibrations                                                        5
5                    The free electron gas                                                  6
6                    Electrons in periodic potentials                                  7
7                    Metals                                                                        9
8                    Semiconductors                                                       10
9                    Superconductors                                                      13
10                  Magnetic systems                                                     11
 

Course requirements:

There will be problems assigned weekly based on material covered in the lecture as well as on contents of the textbook, due Thursdays at the lecture, counting 20% towards the final grade. Problem solving help will be provided in the discussion sections. Problems will be graded as S (satisfactory), if they are handed in in a timely manner and show the correct solution or a reasonable effort towards it, and U (unsatisfactory) otherwise. There will be a midterm (open book) on Thu, Feb. 11, which will count 20% towards the final grade. A special topic paper on a topic relevant to the course, due in the 9th week, will count 20% towards the final grade.  A list of possible topics as well as guidelines will be given by the second week of the course; the student can also choose a different topic with consent of the instructor. A final in-class exam (closed book) will count 40%. 


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