Physics of Solids and Molecules

Recommended Prerequisites

Quantum Mechanics, Atomic and Nuclear Physics.

Teaching Methods

Lectures, using audiovisual means and the blackboard, where the concepts, principles and fundamental theories are presented and practical exercises that exemplify the concepts are solved. Theoretical-practical classes in which the students, with the guidance of the teacher, will solve some practical exercises that require the combination of different theoretical concepts and promote critical thinking.

Learning Outcomes

This course will introduce the main concepts of the study of atom collections, i.e., molecules/clusters and solids. The student should acquire the fundamental knowledge about the electronic structure of molecules and solids and about the quantum description of the properties of matter. He/she should also acquire problem-solving skills in this regard.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Molecular Orbital Theory.
Rotations and vibrations of molecules.
Simple concepts in Statistical Mechanics.
Thermal properties of solids: the heat capacity dilemma.
Crystalline structure of solids.
Electrons in solids: Drude and Sommerfeld models. Bloch electrons.
Band structure. Metals, semiconductors and insulators.
Basic notions of magnetism in solids.

Head Lecturer(s)

Manuela Ramos Marques da Silva

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Exam: 100.0%

Bibliography

"Molecular Quantum Mechanics", Peter W. Atkins, Ronald S. Friedman, Oxford University Press (2010), ISBN 978-0199541423

"Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei and Particles", R. Eisberg and R. Resnick, Wiley (1985), ISBN 978-0471873730

"Solid State Physics", N. W. Ashcroft and N. D. Mermin, Thomson Press (2003), ISBN 978-8131500521

"Magnetism in Condensed Matter", S. Blundell, Oxford University Press (2001), ISBN 978-0198505914.