Programme And Module Handbook
 
Course Details in 2026/27 Session


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Module Title LM Advanced Condensed Matter Physics
SchoolPhysics and Astronomy
Department Physics & Astronomy
Module Code 03 30026
Module Lead Dr Andrey Kaplan
Level Masters Level
Credits 10
Semester Semester 2
Pre-requisites LI Mathematics for Physicists 2A - (03 34465) LI Mathematics for Physicists 2B - (03 34469) LI Quantum Mechanics 2 - (03 17273) LI Differential Equations - (06 25670) LI Multivariable & Vector Analysis - (06 25667)
Co-requisites
Restrictions Optional for all degree programmes within Physics and Astronomy. Particles and Nuclei/A Quantum Approach to Solids (03 26017) and Condensed Matter Physics (03 01123) are advised pre-requisites, although Condensed Matter Physics (03 01123) may be taken concurrently.
Contact Hours Lecture-24 hours
Guided independent study-76 hours
Total: 100 hours
Exclusions
Description The course aims to introduce Y4 students to a broad range of advanced subjects in Condensed Matter Physics. In the first part of the course, the students will learn in depth about theoretical and experimental approaches used to investigate the optical properties of the condensed matter. The students will be taught about optical response of semiconducting and superconducting materials in the bulk form and when their dimensionality is reduced to 2D and 1D. In the second part of the course, the students will learn about Quantum Hall observed in 2D electronic systems at low temperature and its fundamental importance in quantum electrodynamics. The course also provides background for understanding of the surface states which will be preceded by the presentation of Anderson localisation model. Finally, the course provides an introduction to the new topic of topology in condensed matter. Overall, the course will be kept simple and useful for students with very different backgrounds and motivation.
Learning Outcomes By the end of the module students should be able to:
  • Explain the physics behind elementary excitation in the condensed matter such as excitons, solitons, polarons and polaritonsunderstand and explain the main experimental methods used for the characterisation of condensed matter electronic and phonon structure
  • understand the effect of low dimensionality on the electronic structure of semiconducting materials
  • derive and use for problems solving the frequency dependent conductivity at low dimensions using Boltzmann equation
  • understand and apply Kramers-Kronig relation
  • explain and calculate Bloch oscillations
  • understand Anderson localisation model
  • understand the physical consequences of the symmetry breakdown at the boundaries of interfaces and surfaces; explain the origin of the Shockley-Tamm surface states; understand the physical origin of the topological states
Assessment 30026-01 : Exam : Exam (Centrally Timetabled) - Written Unseen (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions Assessment:
2 hour Examination (100%)
Other
Reading List