PHYS 603 - Introduction to Materials

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An introductory overview of the material properties of condensed matter, with particular emphasis on a description of the micro-structure of solid materials. A student wishing to obtain a broad overview of the theory and applications of condensed matter physics may take this course in conjunction with the complementary solid-state physics course, PHYS 604. Topics include atomic arrangements in crystalline and amorphous materials; experimental techniques for observing structure down to nanometer scales; point and line defects, their motion and importance; and the differences between bulk and surface arrangements. The thermodynamics of solutions, multi-phase equilibria and phase transformations. Interfaces, nucleation and growth in bulk materials and at surfaces. The course ends with a discussion of the production and properties of technologically important materials, such as semi-conductor thin films and multi-layers, rapidly solidified amorphous materials and materials with useful magnetic and/or optical properties.
When Offered: (Fall)