Solid State Physics Physics Department
- Cal Poly
- San Luis Obispo
Last Updated: September 12, 2003
Last Updated: September 12, 2003
Textbook: Ronald F. Brown, SOLID STATE PHYSICS - An Introduction for Scientists and Engineers
An introduction to the physics of solids. A study of the underlying principles that determine the properties of solids with emphasis on the electronic behavior of metals and semiconductors.Topics covered in this course will include a review of quantum theory, atomic bonding and crystal stucture, mechanical and thermal properties of solids, and the significance of heat capacity as a measure of the lattice vibrations. The study of electrons in metals will lead to the temperature dependence of resistivity, mobilities, Hall effect, and superconductivity. The band theory of solids and the distinction between metals, insulators and semiconductors will follow from the discussion of the behavior of electrons in crystalline solids. Semiconductor topics will include the effects of doping, electron and hole conductivity, Hall effect, optical absorption, and the physics of the pn junction. The course will conclude with the equilibrium diode and the effects of bias voltages, temperature changes, and light absorption - an application of the ideas of band theory to the operation of basic junction devices.
Lab Instructor: Dr. Matt MoelterA one unit laboratory course that applies and extends your knowledge of solid state physics. Experiments include x-ray diffraction, optical determination of the energy gap of semiconductors, electrical conductivity, Hall effect in semiconductors, minority carrier lifetime, thermoelectric effect and the Fermi level in semiconductors, characteristics of photovoltaic cells, and high Tc super-conductivity. It is a low enrollment lab with extensive interaction with your fellow students and the instructor. (Some say its the best lab they've ever taken!)
This course will continue the discussion of the properties of solids begun in the introductory course in solid state physics to include semiconductor devices - including transistor amplification, photonic devices, and the quantum Hall effect, magnetic properties of solids, and superconductivity - including discussions of the properties of conventional superconductors, the elements of BCS theory, superconducting devices, and high-temperature superconductivity. The prerequisite for the course is Physics 412 (or equivalent) or consent of the instructor.This one year sequence - Physics 412, 452, 413 may be one of the most comprehensive sequences in condensed matter physics offered in any undergraduate program.[NOTE: Physics 413 is only offered in alternate years. It was taught in Spring 2003, so will not be offered this year.]
For students who have taken Physics 412 and who want to pursue their interests in additional topics in solid state physics, independent study or a special topics seminar may be an option by special arrangement depending on schedule. This could include covering topics in semiconductor devices, magnetism, or superconductivity if the advanced topics course is not offerred.
There are some senior project opportunities for a student with enough initiative in one of several areas: Superconductivity - monitoring the SC transition in YCBO by either resistance or magnetic susceptibility measurements; Magnetism - observing a magnetic phase transition in the susceptibility; Semiconductors - characteristics of direct and indirect band gaps by optical absorptions measurements; Devices - properties and characteristics of polymer LEDs (with Dr. David Braun in EE).
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