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Advanced Condensed Matter

Key information

  • Module code:

    7CCP4931

  • Level:

    7

  • Semester:

      Spring

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

Module description

The purpose of this module is to provide an introduction to the theory of condensed matter physics, with an emphasis on contemporary topics.

Topics include second quantisation, tight binding theory, single electron Green's function, linear response, quantum magnetism, strong electronic correlations, meanfield theory, density functional theory.

The module will focus primarily on theories and their applications to important contemporary topics of condensed matter.


Learning aims & outcomes

After successfully completing this module, students will have a deep and systematic understanding of the basic approaches to understand electronic properties of materials. Students will be equipped to engage with research based knowledge at the forefront of this field. Students will have a comprehensive understanding of the basic techniques and methodology relevant for quantum condensed matter physics (tight binding and Hamiltonian representation, Green's function, mean-field theory, density functional theory) applicable to their own work.

Upon completion of the course students should be able, with critical awareness, to undertake analysis of complex, incomplete or contradictory areas of knowledge related to electronic properties of materials and communicate the outcome of such analysis effectively. Students will be able to synthesize information in a manner that may be innovative, utilising knowledge and techniques from the forefront of research.

Students will be able to use a range of learning resources and will be able to apply the acquired skills to undertake innovative research tasks with some guidance. They will be independent and self-critical learners, will be able to communicate topics of condensed matter physics clearly and effectively to specialists/non-specialists and to manage their own continuing professional development.

Students will be able to critically use the learned techniques to analyse and comprehend condensed matter systems. Students will be able to operate in complex and specialised contexts that may be at the forefront of knowledge.

 

Assessment details

Details of the module's assessment/s

Assessment 1 worth 10%: Two KEATS quizzes comprising 5% of the module each

Assessment 2 worth 15%: Journal Club presentations

Assessment 3 worth 15%: group mini project

Written May Exam: 60%

Please note: - module assessment may be subject to change. If you have any questions, please contact physics-pgt@kcl.ac.uk

Students studying at King's for Semester 1 only (September-December) will be set alternative assessment in lieu of in-person exams in January / May as necessary. Further information will be provided by the Department. 

Teaching pattern

Asynchronous recorded lectures (1 hour per week)

Synchronous flipped classroom (1 -2 hour per week)

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.