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402-0257-00L 10 Credits MSC D-ITET , D-PHYS
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Advanced Solid State Physics

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Kirill Povarov
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:47:56

Abstract

This course is an extension of the introductory course on solid state physics.The purpose of this course is to learn to navigate the complex collective quantum phases, excitations and phase transitionsthat are the dominant theme in modern solid state physics. The emphasis is on the main concepts and on specific experimentalexamples, both classic ones and those from recent research.

Objective

The goal is to study how novel phenomena emerge in the solid state.

Content

= Today's challenges and opportunities in Solid State Physics = Phase transitions and critical phenomena .Main concepts: coherence length, symmetry, order parameter, correlation functions, generalized susceptibility .Bragg-Williams mean field theory .Landau theory of phase transitions .Fluctuations in Landau theory .Critical exponents: significance, measurement, inequalities, equalities .Scaling and hyperscaling .Universality .Critical dynamics .Quantum phase transitions and quantum criticality =Fermi surface instabilities . The concept of the Landau Fermi liquid in metals . Kohn anomalies . Charge density waves . Metallic ferromagnets and half-metals . Spin density waves =Magnetism of insulators .Magnetic interactions in solids and the spin Hamiltonian .Magnetic structures and phase transitions .Spin waves .Quantum magnetism = Electron correlations in solids . Mott insulating state . Phases of the Hubbard model . Layered cuprates (non-superconducting properties)

Resources

Lecture Notes

The printed material for this course involves: (1) a self-contained script, distributed electronically at semester start. (2) experimental examples (Power Point slide-style) selected from original publications, distributed at the start of every lecture.

Literature

A list of books will be distributed. Numerous references to useful published scientific papers will be provided.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Advanced Solid State Physics
  • Tue 11:45-12:30 (HPV G 5)
  • Thu 13:45-15:30 (HPV G 5)
3 h weekly
exercise Advanced Solid State Physics
  • Thu 07:45-09:30 (HCP E 47.2)
  • Thu 07:45-09:30 (HIT K 52)
  • Fri 13:45-15:30 (HIT J 51)
2 h weekly

Offered In

  • Physics Master
    • Core Courses (One Core Course in Experimental or Theoretical Physics from Physics Bachelor is eligible; however, this Core Course from Physics Bachelor cannot be used to compensate for the mandatory Core Course in Experimental or Theoretical Physics. For the category assignment keep the choice "no category" and take contact with the Study Administration ( ) after having received the credits.)
  • Quantum Engineering Master
    • Electives (This is a selection of courses particularly suitable for the MSc QE. In agreement with the tutor, students may choose other courses from the ETH course catalogue.)