Introductory description

Many phenomena observed in condensed matter, like magnetism and superconductivity, are the result of interactions between electrons. This module looks at some of these phenomena, how to observe them and how to use them. An important concept in the modelling of these many-electron systems is Landau's idea of the quasiparticle. Excitations of a system of interacting particles can be put into one-to-one correspondence with excitations of non-interacting particles but with a finite lifetime. It's a brilliant idea and helps us understand many (almost all) measurable properties of interest. Landau also set up the most important models of the free energy of the magnets and superconductors in applied fields, which the module studies.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

1. Magnetism.
   Introduction (revision of topics covered by PX385 Condensed Matter Physics). Exchange interactions: ferromagnets; antiferromagnets; ferrimagnets and others. Symmetry and models, Landau theory, excitations. Experimental techniques in magnetism, contemporary magnetism.
2. Quasiparticles & Excitations.
   Bandstructure: tight-binding approach, quasiparticles. Experimental methods, semiconductor optics. Magnetism in semiconductors. Quasiparticles beyond the single particle picture.
3. Superconductivity.
   Basic properties of superconductors, electromagnetism of superconductors and the London equations, phase transitions and the Ginsburg-Landau theory. Phase coherence and the Josephson effects. Overview of BCS theory, experimental evidence for the energy gap. Unconventional superconductors. Superconducting technology

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Explain magnetic, electrical, optical and superconducting properties of materials
• Discuss functional materials and experiments used to probe their properties
• Discuss areas of research in condensed matter physics

Indicative reading list

Superconductivity, superfluids, and condensates, James F. Annett, OUP 2013;
Magnetism in condensed matter, Stephen Blundell, OUP 2001;
Optical properties of solids, Mark Fox, OUP 2010;
Band theory and electronic properties of solids, John Singleton, OUP 2011

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

Knowledge of mathematics and physics. Skills in modelling, reasoning, thinking.

Transferable skills

Analytical, communication, problem-solving, self-study