Catalog Description:  An introductory study of the physics of solids including crystal lattice vibrations and waves, the free electron model, electron energy bands, semiconductor electrical properties, junctions, and optical properties. Prerequisites: PHYS 252 and MATH 232. Offered in the Fall semester. One semester; three credits

Text:  Solid State Physics (2nd ed.) J.R. Hook & H.E. Hall

Prerequisites by Topic: 
introductory, classical physics concepts (force, momentum, energy)
basic quantum physics concepts (photon, matter wave)
basic techniques for solving differential equations

Goals:
1. To gain some insight to the behavior of solids, in particular the behavior of crystals and of electrons traveling in solids.
2. To understand the basic principles of physics used in modeling the behavior of solids.
3. To improve your mathematical skill and your analytic reasoning skill, both which are needed to be a successful physicist.
4. To deepen your appreciation of Nature.

Topics:
Review: Photons, matter waves, conservation of energy and momentum
Crystal Structure: Lattices, bases, directions, structures
Crystal Dynamics: Phonons, heat capacity, thermal conduction
Free Electrons in Metals: Electrical and thermal conduction, Hall effect
Energy Bands: Band structure, effective masses
Semiconductors: Electrons and holes, transport properties, p-n junctions
Low-Dimensional Systems: Quantum size effects

Attendance:  You are expected to attend class.

Final Exam:  Comprehensive

Course instructor webpage:   Dr. John Varriano, Dr. Johnny B. Holmes