Spring 2005, module 1 (1/12- 2/28)

Meeting times
MWF 10:15-11:05am  in Reiss 502

Instructor
Amy Liu
Reiss 554
liu@physics.georgetown.edu
202-687-6583
office hours: TBA

Textbook
Solid State Physics, N. Ashcroft and D. Mermin

Other useful references
Introduction to Solid State Physics (C. Kittel); Condensed Matter Physics (M. Marder); Principles of the Theory of Solids (Ziman)

Course outline
In this module, we will cover three main topics: cohesion of solids, optical properties of solids, and semiconductor physics. We will build on material you  encountered in PHYS-510 on the statics and dynamics of crystal lattices, along with material you will be learning concurrently in PHYS-515 on electronic states in solids. We will cover most of Chapters 19, 20, 27, 28, and 29 in the text. We will also draw from material in some of the supplementary texts. 

Homework
Weekly homework assignments are due at 5pm on Fridays.  For each day the homework is late, 10% will be deducted from the maximum possible grade.

One of the main ways you will learn the material is by doing the homework. You are encouraged to discuss the assignments with your fellow students, but I suggest that you first try them on your own. This will allow you to organize your thoughts and identify areas of difficulty. Please keep in mind that whatever you turn in must be your own work. Simply copying someone else's work without understanding it is not only a violation of the Georgetown Honor System, but also a way to guarantee poor performance on the exams.

Exams
There will be one in-class exam during the module (to be scheduled) and a final exam on March 2 or 3.   In general, the exams will test your understanding of physical concepts rather than your ability to perform complex mathematical manipulations.  (You'll have practice with the latter on the homework assignments.)

Grading
Homework (~5 assignments): 50%
In-class Exam: 15%
Integrative Experience: 15%
Final Exam: 20%