Conductors, Semiconductors, Superconductors: An Introduction To Solid-State Physics

Description

This compact undergraduate textbook provides a concise yet thorough introduction to the fundamentals of solid-state physics, while also briefly discussing the historical context surrounding key scholars in the field. The vivid explanations and unique didactic approach adopted in the book aim to generate interest in these subjects while also serving as a motivating primer and supporting companion for studying more detailed and advanced textbooks in solid-state physics. The book is also suitable as a quick refresher for students preparing for examinations. The third edition features many extensions, including an up-to-date discussion of topological materials, a rapidly developing area at the forefront of solid-state physics. Primarily concentrating on the electric and magnetic properties of materials, the book will benefit undergraduate students in the fields of physics, materials science, and electrical engineering. Front Matter ....Pages i-xvii Spectacular Advances (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 1-13 Well Ordered Lattice Structures in Crystals (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 15-33 Permanent Movement in the Crystal Lattice (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 35-47 Electric Conductor or Insulator?—Energy Bands (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 49-57 Metals Obey the Rules of Quantum Statistics (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 59-72 Less Can Be More: Semiconductors (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 73-96 Circling Electrons in High Magnetic Fields (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 97-116 The Winner: Superconductors (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 117-149 The Big Surprise: High-Temperature Superconductivity (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 151-167 Magnetism: Order Among the Elementary Magnets (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 169-187 Nanostructures: Superlattices, Quantum Wires, and Quantum Dots (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 189-211 Defects in the Crystal Lattice: Useful or Harmful? (Rudolf P. Huebener)....Pages 213-228 Back Matter ....Pages 229-248