Solid state physics is essentially the investigation of the quantum properties of solids. This subject poses a serious learning curve to students because abstract concepts (from quantum mechanics and reciprocal space) are used and a variety of mathematical tools are used, especially techniques of making approximations.

The purpose of this book is to provide students with a rigorous but accessible introduction to solid state physics, covering the standard topics of crystal structures, phonons, electronic properties, basic semiconductor physics and basic aspects of magnetism. This book has two unique features to make it accessible to students: 1) explicit details of calculations are provided and; 2) a number of animations are interspersed throughout the book to aid the visualization of abstract concepts. The provision of calculational details allows students to have time to ponder over the physical implications of the calculations that were being carried out and thereby leading to a deeper and more satisfying understanding of the topic.

Key Features

• Interactive features including embedded videos which animate the concepts and make them much easier to visualise.
• Provides detailed calculations so that students can pick up the calculational skills and have time to ponder on the physical meanings of the derivations.
• Based on the author’s lecturer notes and is class tested.