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PHY2009 Physics of Crystals2007-2008Code: PHY2009Title: Physics of Crystals Instructors: Prof. R.J. Hicken CATS credits: 10 ECTS credits: 5 Availability: unrestricted Level: 2 Pre-requisites: N/A Co-requisites: N/A Background Assumed: Waves and Oscillators (PHY1106) Duration: Semester I Directed Study Time: 22 lectures Private Study Time: 66 hours Assessment Tasks Time: 12 hours Observation report: 2002/03 DAB AimsThis module will develop the students' understanding of how electrons, and other waves, propagate within crystalline materials. The first section involves learning about the crystal structures common in nature. The fundamental properties of periodic structures are discussed, which are central to our understanding of solid-state physics, particularly the relationship between real space and reciprocal space and the representation of elastic and inelastic scattering in both spaces. The second section involves learning about the vibrational excitations of the crystal lattice - phonons. These are of central importance to the properties of insulators and will be further discussed in PHY3102 (Solid State Physics I). Both phonons and electrons are profoundly influenced by the crystal structure in which they propagate. The last section of this module considers the transport of electrons in the free-electron and nearly-free-electron approximations, which give a good description of the behaviour of electrons in metals and semiconductors. Intended Learning OutcomesStudents should be able to: Module Specific Skills
Discipline Specific Skills
Personal and Key Skills
Learning and Teaching MethodsLectures, tutorials, problems classes, and on-line teaching resources. AssignmentsRegular problems sheets for self-study and prepartion for problems classes. AssessmentOne 30-minute test (20%), problems classes (10%) and one 90-minute examination (70%) Syllabus Plan and Content
Core Text, Introduction to Solid State Physics, Wiley (UL: 530.41 KIT)Supplementary Text(s)(1988), Fundamentals of Solid State Physics, Wiley, ISBN 0-471-81095-9 (UL: 530.41 CHR)(1991), Solid State Physics (2nd edition), Wiley, ISBN 0-471-928054 (UL: 530.41 HOO) Formative MechanismsThis module is supported by problems classes and tutorials. Students are able to monitor their own progress by attempting problems sheets provided in the lectures. The graded mid-semester test scripts are discussed by tutors. Students with specific problems should first approach their tutor, and if the problem is not resolved, the lecturer. Evaluation MechanismsThe module will be evaluated using information gathered via the student representation mechanisms, the staff peer appraisal scheme, and measures of student attainment based on summative assessment. |