OVERVIEW

The course introduces the basic concepts and models of the Physics of Solids. Emphasis is placed on the ability to interpret the physical properties of solids with the help of appropriate simplifications and mathematical models, identifying the limits of validity of the approximations introduced. The program includes an introduction to the structure, vibrational and electronic states of solids, with special reference to crystalline solids.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Acquire basic knowledge of the physics of solids in its experimental and theoretical aspects as well as a solid working methodology and an interdisciplinary approach oriented towards solving problems

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Know how to apply basic knowledge of classical physics, modern physics and chemistry to the study at the introductory level of the Physics of Solids.  To be familiar with the mathematical tools needed to develop models useful for describing the behavior of crystalline solids and understanding their thermal, vibrational and electronic properties; to know how to exhibit examples of the application of models to solids; to integrate the knowledge and languages of the various disciplines.

PREREQUISITES

Basic knowledge of general and modern physics, mathematical analysis and vector algebra.

TEACHING METHODS

Classroom lectures with examples and applications.  The teaching involves approximately 64 hours of lectures. Active student participation is solicited in discussions that highlight the characteristics of the various models used and their appropriateness for interpreting the properties of crystalline solids.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

A brief overview of the properties of the solid state and crystal structure, with references to atomic and molecular physics. 

Elements of statistical physics of the solid state. Specific heat in the classical limit. Quantum hypotheses and the Einstein and Debye models. The Drude model for electronic conduction and heat transport in metals. The Sommerfeld model of free electrons. Electronic density of states. Fermi sphere and Fermi energy. Electronic specific heat. Pauli paramagnetism (overview).

Introductory elements of molecular physics 
Introduction to the method of linear combination of atomic orbitals (Tight Binding Method): diatomic molecule. Three-atom chain: vibrational modes and electronic states. 

Introduction to elementary excitations in solids: linear chains of atoms

Monoatomic chain
Direct lattice and reciprocal lattice. k-space.
Vibrations: Normal modes of oscillation. Dispersion relation and consequences.  Comparison with the Debye model.  Vibrational quanta (phonons).
Electronic states. Dispersion relation in the Strong Bond approximation. Representation in the extended and reduced zones. Allowed and forbidden energy intervals.  State density.  

Diatomic chain. Direct lattice and reciprocal lattice. Vibrational modes and electronic bands. Band filling criteria. 

Crystal Lattices
Direct lattice: conventional, primitive, and unit cells. Lattices with a base. Reciprocal lattice:  Brillouin zone: construction and properties. In-depth study of cubic symmetry structures.  

Waves in crystals
Diffraction experiments for the study of crystal structures. Laue and Bragg conditions. 

Phonons 
Experimental methods for verifying phonon dispersions. Examples of phonon branches. 

Electronic bands
Electrons in a periodic potential.  Strongly bound electrons: bands in insulating materials.  Quasi-free electron approximation and bands in metals (examples).  Semiconductors (brief overview). Experimental methods for determining the band structure. 

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Recommended

S.H Simon Oxford Solid State Basics

Other texts

N. W. Ashcroft N. David Mermin   Solid State Physics

 C. Kittel, Introduzione alla fisica dello stato solido

https://chem.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Physical_and_Theoretical_Chemistry_Textbook_Maps/Mathematical_Methods_in_Chemistry_(Levitus)

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Second half of september

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Written test (two hours) with discussion of  exercises and demonstrations carried out in the course.

Students will be provided with a handout ( main formulas).

Oral test. Discussion of two topics. One topic is the student's choice.

Students with valid certifications for Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs), disabilities or other educational needs are invited to contact the teacher and the School's contact person for disability at the beginning of teaching to agree on possible teaching arrangements that, while respecting the teaching objectives, take into account individual learning patterns. Contacts of the teacher and the School's disability contact person can be found at the following link Comitato di Ateneo per l’inclusione delle studentesse e degli studenti con disabilità o con DSA | UniGe | Università di Genova
 

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Written test: verification of accuracy, precision and completeness. A score is given in thirtieths (maximum 30)

Oral test: verification of accuracy, precision and completeness. A score from 0 to 10 is assigned.

The final grade is obtained from the sum of the marks obtained in the two tests.

Honors are granted if the total score reaches 37 points.

FURTHER INFORMATION

There is no additional information beyond what has already been provided.