This course aims to establish fundamental concepts in solid-state physics. The electron theory of solids is developed and applied to explain the physical properties of metals, semiconductors and other materials. The course consists of approximately half the material covered in PHYS3032: Condensed Matter Physics.  It includes a lab program.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Understand the significance and value of condensed matter physics, both scientifically and in the wider community;
2. Critically analyse experimental strategies, evaluate them, and decide which is most appropriate for answering the questions they are asking;
3. Research and communicate scientific knowledge (specifically, a topic related to the course); this communication may be of a technical or more non-specialist nature;
4. Apply key analysis techniques to typical problems encountered in the field;
5. Gain and apply discipline-specific knowledge, including using self-directed research in the scientific literature.

Assessment will be based on:

• Examination (40%; LO 4, 5)
• Laboratory work (30%; LO 2, 3, 4)
• Assignments (30%; LO 1, 3, 5)

A total of 15 lectures, 4 tutorials and 9 hours of laboratory work.

PHYS2013 or PHYS2020.

with PHYS3032