Introduction

The course deals with introducing concepts of Solid state physics to undergraduate students. The course will be pitched at the level of a first-year course in M.Sc in Physics. For this course, exposure to the undergraduate level of (a) quantum mechanics, (b) statistical and thermal physics, and (c) electromagnetic theory is expected for this course. It is hoped that through this course, the student will understand the quantum theory of solids which is used to describe the thermal and electrical properties of a solid. The student will explore the interaction of a solid with electromagnetic radiation like X-rays and how this can be used to understand the atomic crystal structure of the solid. 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. 

An obvious, very important motivation for the study of Solid State Physics is the fact that

• The microscopic properties it deals with are responsible for the majority of modern technology. These properties determine the mechanical strength of materials, how they interact with light, how they conduct electricity, etc. 
•  Solid State Physics is an important subject for technology, because it gives guidance on  how to design the circuits needed for modern electronic devices.
•  This field, after all, gave us both the transistor & the semiconductor chip! For these reasons, Solid State Physics has been traditionally linked to materials science, chemistry & engineering.
• Recently, it has also developed overlaps with biology, biochemistry, biotechnology & medicine. So, many current research questions in Solid State Physics are at the frontiers of applied science & next-generation technologies.

Recommended 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 marks (Assignment, quiz, etc)

   Mid Term exam:           30 marks

   Final exam:                  50 marks

    

   Time of class:

   MSc 2nd       =>       Wednesday (01:00 - 02:00), Thursday (01:00 - 02:00), Friday (01:00 - 02:00)