Course introduction 

This course integrates the theory of Solid State Physics with different properties of solids starting from the fundamental concepts. The course will provide a valuable theoretical introduction and an overview of the fundamental applications of the Physics of solids in broader range of different areas of Research in Science. This course includes a theoretical description of crystal structure and its different geometries, interatomic bonding, detailed investigation of theoretical and experiment concepts of x-ray diffraction, and involvement of lattice dynamics, which give birth to some successful theories of lattice heat capacity of Solids based on the principles of Classical and Quantum Physics. 

Learning Outcomes

The main objective of this course is to equip students with the brief introduction of Solid State Physics. In the end, the students will be able to know what is solid state Physics. They will truly come to know how the knowledge of solid-state Physics is worth understanding the basic geometries as well as crystal structure determination which play significantly in exploring the different properties of solid materials. Moreover, they will also know how classical and quantum laws will help us to unveil the underlying principles behind the material properties.

Suggested Books:

1.  Introduction to Solid State Physics by C. Kittle, 7th  Edition, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. (2005).

2.  Solid state physics by Neil W. Ashecroft, N. David Mermin, CBS Publishing Asia Ltd. (2003).

3.  Solid State Physics by J. S. Blakemroe, Cambridge University Press (1991).

4.  Elementary solid state physics, by M. A. Omar, (2003).

5.  Basic elements of crystallography by N G Szwachi and T Szwacka (2010)

6.  Solid State Physics and electronics by R K Puri and V K Babbar  (2007)

Assessment Criteria:

Sessional: 20 (Presentation/Assignment 05, Lecture activities/Attendance 05, Sessional Tests 10 Marks (Each sessional test will be conducted one week prior to Mid Term and Final Term Examination.)

Mid-Term Exam:  30

Final-Term Exam: 50

Course Contents

Crystal structure in 2D and 3D, fundamental types of lattices, index system for crystal planes, simple crystal structures, X-ray diffraction, Braggs law, reciprocal lattice, Diffraction of waves by crystals, scattered wave amplitude, Brillouin zones, crystal binding and elastic constants, Classification of Solids, ionic crystals, covalent crystals, Ionic Radii, II-VI and III-V compounds, Molecular crystals, metals, Cohesive energy, The Lenard Jones Potential, Density, Cohesive energy and Bulk Modulus of crystalline solids, The Madelung constant, Cohesion in Covalent crystals, elastic waves in cubic crystals. Vibration of crystals with a monatomic basis, two atoms per primitive basis, quantization of elastic waves, normal vibration modes and phonon, phonon momentum, inelastic scattering by phonons, Phonon heat capacity, lattice heat capacity, Einstein and Debye models. Sommerfeld model of free electron theory, Energy levels in one dimension, free electron gas in three dimensions. DC and AC electrical conductivity of metals