MODERN CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS

This module is part of the Quantum Science and Technology curriculum within the Master's Degree in Engineering Physics. It provides students with advanced knowledge of the fundamental concepts of condensed matter physics, in particular of crystalline solids and nanostructures with potential applications in electronics and quantum technologies.
The module is connected to ongoing research in the Department and has two main objectives:
1. To prepare students for research in condensed matter physics by introducing the models that have shaped our microscopic understanding of the electronic properties and complex phenomena occurring in materials, with particular reference to those used in information and quantum technologies.
2. To provide students with the skills to qualitatively estimate the main properties of materials using simple models and approximations.
Starting from the electronic structure of solids, the module will cover electronic and quantum transport, Dirac and topological materials, magnetism, and spintronics. Particular attention will be given to developing problem-solving skills, explaining how the properties of materials can be calculated using simple approximations. Furthermore, several research papers will be presented and discussed to teach students how to perform a critical analysis of the scientific literature.

1. Knowledge and understanding
• Broad and detailed understanding of the fundamental concepts of condensed matter physics.
• Ability to analyze and explain the physical phenomena emerging in systems used in quantum technologies.

2. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding
• Apply quantum models to describe some of the main classes of materials studied in modern research.
• Calculate the electronic, conductive, and magnetic properties of materials.
• Participate in research projects in the field of condensed matter physics.

3. Autonomy of judgment
• Identify and correct potential errors through a critical analysis of the applied methods.
• Compare theoretical results with experimental data.
• Understand and critically evaluate the scientific literature in the field of the condensed matter physics.

4. Communication skills
• Clearly and precisely communicate acquired knowledge, using appropriate terminology, both in written and oral forms.

5. Learning skills
• Take notes by selecting and organizing information based on its relevance and priority.
• Achieve a sufficient level of autonomy in gathering relevant data and information from scientific literature.

To enroll in this course, students are required to have knowledge of General Physics, Quantum Mechanics and Mathematical Methods at the level covered in a three-year scientific degree program.
While it is not mandatory to have attended the Solid State Physics course (or another equivalent course) of the three-year scientific degree program, having prior knowledge of some basic solid state physics may be beneficial. In any case, students' pre-existing knowledge will be assessed at the beginning of the course, and the program will be adjusted accordingly.

1. Band theory and the LCAO method, with worked examples.
2. Graphene and Dirac materials.
3. Lattice vibrations and phonons.
4. Boltzmann transport theory.
5. Electrical conduction in metals.
6. Brief introduction to the optical properties of materials.
7. Diamagnetism and paramagnetism.
8. Hall effect and magnetoresistance.
9. Berry phase and topological materials.
10. Ferromagnetism and antiferromagnetism. Systems with localized magnetic moments versus itinerant magnetism.
11. Advanced magnetism: anisotropy, domains, hysteresis, and dynamics.
12. Spintronics: GMR, TMR, spin torque, and devices.

Steven M. Girvin and Kun Yang, Modern Condensed Matter Physics (Cambridge University Press, 2019)
Giuseppe Grosso and Giuseppe Pastori Parravicini, Solid State Physics, Second Edition (Academic Press, 2014)
Harald Ibach and Hans Lüth, Solid-State Physics: An Introduction to Principles of Materials Science, Fourth Edition (Springer, 2009)
Stephen Blundell, Magnetism in Condensed Matter (Oxford University Press, 2001)
Lecture notes provided by the instructor and additional materials on specific topics may be suggested during the lectures.

Achievement of the course learning objectives is assessed through participation in the activities proposed during the course (quizzes and exercises) and through a final oral examination.
The final examination consists of a single oral session divided into two parts.
1. Individual seminar: the student will give a presentation on a topic agreed upon with the instructor, related to the topics covered during the course, with the aim of applying the acquired knowledge to a new topic. The seminar may include a critical discussion of the results of one or more relevant scientific papers, as well as answers to a set of assigned questions, both qualitative and quantitative. During the presentation, the student is expected to explain the concepts related to the topic in a correct and clear way, connecting them to what was covered in the lectures. Personal contribution, original examples, and connections with other course topics will be positively considered, as indicators of a mature and critical understanding. The recommended format is a PowerPoint presentation, which must be sent to the instructor before the oral examination, within the deadline agreed upon in class.
2. Oral discussion of the core topics of the course: the second part consists of a few questions on the fundamental contents of the course, as presented in the lectures. The student is expected to demonstrate a solid understanding of the basic concepts and may be asked to set up a simple problem. In the assessment, theoretical and experimental aspects will be given equal weight.
Students who regularly attend the course may obtain a bonus by participating in the quizzes and exercises proposed during the lectures; the bonus will be added to the oral examination grade.

oral

The instructor is responsible for ensuring the authenticity and originality of all examinations and coursework. In cases of suspected academic misconduct, an additional on-site assessment may be required during the exams, which may differ from the standard format.

An excellent grade (27-30/30) corresponds to an exam in which the student demonstrates a solid, broad, and well-organized command of the concepts covered during the course, as well as the ability to critically connect the different topics.
An intermediate grade (22-26/30) corresponds to an overall good preparation, with a fairly complete understanding of the individual topics, but with a limited ability to connect the different topics of the course.
A pass grade (18-21/30) corresponds to the achievement of the minimum learning requirements, with essential knowledge of the fundamental contents of the course.
The award of honours (lode) is reserved for outstanding performances, characterized not only by full command of the contents, but also by clarity of exposition, autonomy of judgment, and critical depth.

The course is delivered through lectures, in which the instructor uses the board and/or slide presentations, group work, and in-class exercises. Students are assigned readings to be done at home, which are reviewed through quizzes at the beginning of lectures and subsequent discussion. Critical reading of research papers is also included, and these are discussed in class with the instructor and the other students.

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Cities, infrastructure and social capital" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development