Matière Condensée

Physics of condensed matter

Description: Building on the concepts introduced in the first year on semiconductors and solid-state physics, this course explores a range of material behaviors, beginning with transport phenomena and extending to magnetism and superconductivity. These topics are examined with a focus on their distinctive physical properties, providing students with a deeper understanding of the mechanisms governing condensed matter systems. The course emphasizes both theoretical foundations and illustrative examples to highlight how fundamental principles manifest in real materials.

The study of condensed matter is continually advanced by the creation and investigation of new classes of materials. A key example discussed in the course is topological insulators, which are distinguished from conventional materials by the fact that their phase transitions do not involve symmetry breaking, classifying them as nontrivial matter. Through this and other examples, students gain insight into modern developments in material science and the unique behaviors that arise from complex physical interactions.

Bibliography:

• Ref. [1] : C. Kittel, Introduction to Solid State Physics. Wiley & Sons, 8th Ed. (2004)

Learning outcomes: AA1: Understand transport phenomena in solids, including electronic transport, scattering, and thermal properties – AA2: Have knowledge of magnetic phenomena, superconductivity, and topological properties – AA3: Be able to follow recent advances in condensed matter physics and adapt to new discoveries and emerging technologies.

Evaluated skills:

• Physical Modeling

Course supervisor: Nicolas Marsal

Geode ID: SPM-PHY-013