PHYSICS 555 -- SOLID STATE I
Fall Semester 2003
course web page http://felix.physics.sunysb.edu/~allen/555/
Instructor: Philip
B. Allen (philip.allen@sunysb.edu)
office Physics B-146;
hours: Mon 3-4; Wed. 4:00-5:00
contrary to previous information!
The class will meet in Physics
B-131, MW 10:40-12:00 am
there will also be occasional Friday classes, usually
to review homeworks.
Bulletin Description: This course concentrates on the basic notions
of solid state physics, treated mostly within the single-particle approximation.
Main topics include: crystal lattices and symmetries, reciprocal lattice
and state counting, phonons, electron energy band theory, bonding and cohesion
(semi-quantitatively), electron dynamics and electron transport in metals
and semiconductors, screening, optical properties of solids, and an introduction
to magnetism. Additional topics not mentioned
in the bulletin description: superconductivity, a little nanophysics,
and a tiny bit of surface physics.
Prerequisite: It is assumed that students are familiar
with quantum mechanics at the level of one semester of graduate quantum
mechanics, or passage of the qualifying exam part I in physics, or a graduate
level course in physical chemistry. Similar knowledge of statistical
mechanics and electromagnetism is expected. A prior course in solid
state physics is NOT a prerequisite, but students who have never studied
this subject before should please buy a copy of Kittel's book "Introduction
to Solid State Physics" and read the chapters in this book while PHY
555 covers the corresponding material at a more advanced level.
Syllabus for Fall 2003
I. Aims of the course:
II. Procedures and Requirements: There will be homework problems
assigned (10 problem sets over the semester.)
III. Grading:
IV Required
text:
John M. Ziman, Principles of the Theory of Solids, Cambridge
University Press, 2nd edition, 1979 paperback.
V. Academic Honesty: Discussions with fellow students are
strongly encouraged, but work which is submitted for grading must be in
your own words. You should review the definition of plagiarism.
VI.Americans with Disabilities Act: If you have a physical, psychological,
medical or learning disability that may impact your course work, please
contact Disability Support Services, ECC (Educational Communications Center)
Building, room 128, (631) 632-6748. They will determine with you
what accommodations are necessary and appropriate. All information and
documentation is confidential.
Students requiring emergency evacuation are encouraged to discuss their
needs with their professors and Disability Support Services. For procedures
and information, go to the following web site.
<http://www.ehs.sunysb.edu/fire/disabilities/asp>
