PHY3102 Solid State Physics I

2007-2008

Code: PHY3102
Title: Solid State Physics I
Instructors: Dr A.P. Hibbins
CATS credits: 10
ECTS credits: 5
Availability: unrestricted
Level: 3
Pre-requisites: N/A
Co-requisites: N/A
Background Assumed: Physics of Crystals (PHY2009) and Quantum Physics I (PHY2002)
Duration: Semester I
Directed Study Time: 22 lectures
Private Study Time: 78 hours
Assessment Tasks Time: -
Observation report: 2003/04 JRS

Aims

This module is designed to be a starting point for consideration of solid state physics for some students but also to provide an overview for those who will not proceed further. As such it fits into a series of core modules PHY1003 (Properties of Matter), PHY2009 (Physics of Crystals), PHY3102 (Solid State I) and PHYM401 (Solid State II). Solid state physics is not only important from a technological point of view but also as the physical realisation of much fundamental physics.

Intended Learning Outcomes

The student will be able to

• explain qualitatively band theory;
• compare the strengths and weakness of free electron and nearly free electron theories;
• state Bloch Theorem;
• draw E-k diagrams;
• describe the concepts of Brillouin zone, Density of States, Fermi energy, effective mass and holes;
• describe the basic optical transitions in semiconductors;
• describe an acceptor and donor;
• distinguish between extrinsic and intrinsic properties of semiconductors;
• define drift, diffusion and thermal conduction and the relations between them for metals, semiconductors and degenerate semiconductors;
• distinguish an insulator, semiconductor and metal;
• explain how to construct a Fermi surface.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Lectures, tutorials and problems classes (two)

Assignments

Problems for problem classes; problem sheet for discussion in tutorials.

Assessment

One 90-minute examination (100%).

Syllabus Plan and Content

1. Review of Brillouin zones
2. Free-electron model
   1. Free-electron Fermi gas
   2. Energy dispersion in k-space
   3. Reduced and extended zones
   4. Effective mass
   5. Density of states
   6. Electron-distribution function; phonon distribution function; Fermi level
3. Nearly-Free-Electron Model
   1. Effect of crystal potential on the free-electron picture
   2. Bloch electron
   3. Origin of energy-band gaps
   4. Holes
4. Band Picture for Classification of Solids
   1. Formation of energy bands in solids
   2. Band picture for insulators, semiconductors and metals
5. Fermi surfaces
   1. Fermi surfaces in metals
   2. Harrison's construction of the Fermi sphere
6. Elementary Optical Properties of Semiconductors
   1. Fundamental absorption; direct and indirect transitions; absorption coefficient; recombination
7. Intrinsic and Extrinsic Semiconductors
   1. Donor and acceptor levels in semiconductors; ionization energy of a donor electron, and the Bohr radius
   2. Free-charge-carrier concentration and the Fermi level at different temperatures
   3. The significance of the Fermi level; band structure of a p-n junction
8. Transport Properties of Solids
   1. Drift and diffusion in semiconductors; the Einstein relation
   2. Thermal conduction in semiconductors and insulators
   3. Drift and thermal conduction in metals
   4. The Wiedemann-Franz law
   5. Summary comparing semiconductors with metals

Core Text

Kittel C. , Introduction to Solid State Physics, Wiley (UL: 530.41 KIT)

Supplementary Text(s)

Burns G. (1985), Solid State Physics, Academic Press, ISBN 0-12-146070-3 (UL: 530.41 BUR)
Hook J.R. and Hall H.E. (1991), Solid State Physics (2^nd edition), Wiley, ISBN 0-471-928054 (UL: 530.41 HOO)

Formative Mechanisms

Students are encouraged to ask questions during and after the class. Students are able to monitor their learning by attempting problems, which are subsequently discussed in the problems classes, and by attempting the problem sheet intended for discussion in tutorials.

Evaluation Mechanisms

The 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.