Advanced Condensed Matter

Module description

This module is aimed at advanced quantum theories and their applications to condensed matter systems.

The covered methodologies include:

1. Second quantisation formalism for many-particle systems
2. Tight-binding Hamiltonians for electrons and phonons
3. Perturbation theory for weakly-interacting systems, Boltzmann transport theory
4. Green's function formalism, elements of modern electronic structure theories
5. Susceptibilities, linear response, random phase approximation, BCS theory

 

Applications will include basic insight into transport properties, spectroscopies (e.g., photoemission, optics, neutrons), elements of the physics of the Hubbard model, connections with materials such as graphene and transition-metal oxides, phenomena such as the Mott metal-insulator transition, screening effects and collective excitations, and elements of (conventional) superconductivity.

 

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 20%: Four KEATS quizzes spaced out over the semester
Assessment 2 worth 20%: Group mini-project and report
Assessment 3 worth 60%: Written May exam

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

Teaching pattern

Asynchronous recorded lectures (2 hours per week)

Exercise session (1 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.