ELEG 621 introduces the principles of solid state physics upon which semiconductor device operation is built. It reviews the phenomena that govern atoms when they take the form of a solid, and the materials properties that result. The behavior of conductors, insulators and semiconductors will be developed from quantum mechanical principles. The goal is to introduce the student to the field of semiconductors and to provide a firm basis to understand the operation of p-n junctions, transistors and lasers. Suggested prerequisites include courses on solid sate physics, quantum mechanics and electromagnetics, taken previously or concurrently.
First meeting: Thursday, 5 September, 2002; 2:00-3:15
pm; 210 Evans Hall
Regular meetings: Tuesdays and Thursdays 2:00-3:15 pm; 210 Evans Hall
Drude and Sommerfeld models of free electron conduction
Crystal Structure: Bravais Lattices, Reciprocal Lattice, Brillouin Zones, Crystallographic Point Groups
Bonds and Bands: electrons in periodic potentials
Harmonic Theory of the Dynamic Lattice: Phonons, Debye model, Thermal effects
Dielectric Properties
Magnetic Properties
Semiconductors, defects and impurities
Boltzmann Transport
Electronic Properties of Polymers
Superconductivity