Course detail

Solid State Physics

FEKT-MPA-FPFAcad. year: 2027/2028

  • Introduction to solid state physics and classification of solids.
  • Crystal structures, crystal lattices, unit cells, and symmetry.
  • Reciprocal lattice and diffraction in crystals.
  • Bonding in solids: ionic, covalent, metallic, and van der Waals bonding.
  • Lattice vibrations, phonons, and thermal properties of solids.
  • Electrons in solids and the free-electron model.
  • Band theory of solids.
  • Metals, semiconductors, and insulators.
  • Electrical conductivity and transport phenomena.
  • Fundamentals of semiconductor physics and the p–n junction.
  • Magnetic properties of solids.
  • Superconductivity and selected modern materials.
  • Applications of solid state physics in electronics, photonics, and materials engineering.
 

Language of instruction

English

Number of ECTS credits

5

Mode of study

Not applicable.

Guarantor

prof. Mgr. Dinara Sobola, Ph.D.

Department

Department of Physics (UFYZ)

Entry knowledge

Basic knowledge of general and modern physics is expected, particularly mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, and fundamentals of quantum physics. Students should be familiar with basic mathematical methods used in physics, including differential and integral calculus, linear algebra, and complex numbers. 

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

Students can obtain up to:
- 25 points from the semester project (solving of given problems or elaboration of a given topic)
- 20 points from laboratories (6 reports),
- 55 points from the exam (a written part of 35 points and a verbal part of 20 points).
Students must obtain at least 10 points in the written part to proceed to the verbal part.
Students must obtain at least 5 points in the verbal part to pass the exam.
The exam is focused on the verification of basic knowledge in the field of electrical and optical properties of solids, including solving of selected problems.
Laboratory exercises are compulsory, properly excused missed labs can be compensate after consultation with the teacher. 

Aims

The objective of the course is to introduce students to the fundamental principles of solid state physics and to develop an understanding of the relationship between the microscopic structure of materials and their macroscopic physical properties. Students will acquire knowledge of crystal structures, bonding in solids, lattice vibrations, electronic properties of solids, and the fundamental principles governing the electrical, thermal, and magnetic properties of materials. Emphasis is placed on understanding physical models and their application to real materials. 

Study aids

Not applicable.

Prerequisites and corequisites

Not applicable.

Basic literature

Kittel, CH.: Introduction to Solid State Physics. 8th ed. Wiley, 2004, ISBN: 978-0471415268 (EN)
Seeger, K.: Semiconductor Physics. Springer Verlag, 1982, ISBN: 978-3540114215 (EN)

Recommended reading

Davies, J., H.: The Physics of Low-dimensional Semiconductors. Cambridge University Press, 1997, ISBN: 978-0521484916 (EN)
Kelly, M., J.: Low-dimensional Semiconductors. Clarendon Press, 1996, ISBN: 978-0198517801 (EN)

Classification of course in study plans

  • Programme MPA-NCP Master's

    branch --- , 1 year of study, summer semester, compulsory-optional

  • Programme MPC-EVM Master's 0 year of study, summer semester, elective
  • Programme MPC-MEL Master's 0 year of study, summer semester, elective
  • Programme MPC-NCP Master's 0 year of study, summer semester, elective
  • Programme MPAD-CAN Master's 0 year of study, summer semester, elective
  • Programme MPA-SAP Master's 0 year of study, summer semester, elective
  • Programme MPAD-CAN Master's 0 year of study, summer semester, elective

Type of course unit

 

Lecture

39 hours, optionally

Teacher / Lecturer

prof. Mgr. Dinara Sobola, Ph.D.

Syllabus

1)Elements of quantum physics, Schrodinger equation, electron as a particle and as a wave, quantum barriers and wells.
2)Structure of solids, crystallographic systems, crystal lattice defects, noncrystalline solids, heterojunctions, supelattices.
3)Electrons in solids: band diagrams, dispersion relation, effective mass, amorphous semiconductors, distribution function, Boltzmann transport equation, methods of its solution, transport coefficients.
4)Drift, diffusion, galvanomagnetic, thermoelectric, thermomagnetic, piezoelectric and acoustoelectric effects, nonequilibrium charge carriers, hot electrons, ballistic transport.
5)Properties of fundamental microelectronic structures: 3D structures (homojunction, heterojunction, MIS, potential barriers).
6)Properties of fundamental nanoelectronic structures: 2D, 1D, 0D structures (quantum wells, wires, points).
7)Spin effects in electronics.
8)Electromagnetic waves in crystals, isotropic, uniaxial, biaxial crystals.
9)Electromagnetic waves in semiconductors and metals, optical properties of semiconductors in external electric and magnetic field.
10)Lasers: physical principle, coherent radiation generation, different types of lasers, semiconductor lasers.
11)Nonlinear optical effects.
12)Photonic crystals: principle, properties, applications.
13)Reserve. 

Laboratory exercise

13 hours, compulsory

Teacher / Lecturer

prof. Mgr. Dinara Sobola, Ph.D.

Syllabus


1)Introduction: basic features of computer simulators.
2)Structures of solids.
3)Hall efect and concentrations.
4)Radiation absoption.
5)Electromagnetic waves in solids.
6)Lasers. 

Individual preparation for a final exam

30 hours, optionally

Teacher / Lecturer

prof. Mgr. Dinara Sobola, Ph.D.

Syllabus

Independent review and systematization of the topics covered during the semester; study of course materials; practice of theoretical knowledge and practical skills; solving sample tasks and comprehensive preparation for the final examination.

 

Individual preparation for excercises

26 hours, optionally

Teacher / Lecturer

prof. Mgr. Dinara Sobola, Ph.D.

Syllabus

Independent study of materials related to the exercise; preparation of calculations, designs, and procedures for practical tasks; study of instructions and technical documentation; continuous preparation for knowledge assessment.

 

Individual preparation - working on the assigned tasks

24 hours, optionally

Teacher / Lecturer

prof. Mgr. Dinara Sobola, Ph.D.

Syllabus

Independent completion of assigned tasks using acquired knowledge and skills; study of relevant materials and resources; preparation, review, and completion of assignments in the required scope and format.