Statistical and Solid State Physics 12 credits

About the course

The course consists of two parts, Statistical Physics and Solid State Physics.

Statistical Physics. This part begins with a review of basic concepts in statistical physics, including probability theory. Canonical ensemble and concepts such as partition functions and density of states are introduced. This is followed by a review of the theory of grand canonical ensemble and its applications. Special emphasis is placed on systems of particles in specific single-particle states and on the Bose Einstein, Planck and Fermi Dirac distribution functions. Properties of degenerate Bose and Fermi gases are derived. Concepts and phenomena such as photon gas, blackbody radiation, Fermi energy and Bose-Einstein condensation are discussed. The Statistical Physics part concludes with a review of the classical limit, Maxwell's momentum distribution and the equipartition theorem.

Solid State Physics. This part begins with a review of the structure of crystals and the determination of crystal structure by X-ray diffraction. The course then mainly deals with the electrical and thermal properties of crystalline elements and their dependence on various variables such as temperature. The free electron model is introduced to describe the electrical and thermal properties of simpler metals, while band structure models must be introduced for more complicated metals and semiconductors. Doped semiconductors and some semiconductor applications are also covered. Lattice dynamics are described by introducing the phonon concept. The Debye model is used to describe heat capacity, volume expansion and thermal conductivity of insulators.

The course includes mandatory laboratory exercises and the course comprises the following modules:

Module 1: Statistical physics (theory) 4.5 credits
Module 2: Solid state physics (theory) 6 credits
Module 3: Solid state physics (laboratory) 1.5 credits