Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Quantum Theory & Solid State
School
EPS
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
1. Pre-requisites
Module
Code
B20QD
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
on
Credits
15
B29QS
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
4. Replacement Module
Code:
5.
Date Of Replacement:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
B211-PHY
B2C1-COM
B281-ENV
B261-ENG
B2B1-PHO
B2N1-NAN
B2M1-MAT
B2L1-ELE
B2G1-ENE
B2PS-SCI
B21M-PHY
B23M-COM
B26M-ENG
B2BM-PHO
B2NM-NAN
B2MM-MAT
B2LM-ELE
B2GM-ENE
B2FM-SCI
B2DM-OPT
Availability as an
Elective
Yes
No
X
BSc Physics
BSc Computational Physics
BSc Physics with Environmental Science
BSc Engineering Physics
BSc Photonics and Lasers
BSc Nanoscience
BSc Mathematical Physics
BSc Physics with Electronic Engineering
BSc Energy Science and Technology
BSc Physical Science
MPhys Physics
MPhys Computational Physics
MPhys Engineering Physics
MPhys Photonics and Lasers
MPhys Nanoscience
MPhys Mathematical Physics
MPhys Physics with Electronic Engineering
MPhys Energy Science and Technology
MPhys Physical Science
MPhys Optoelectronics and Lasers
7. Aims
To build on earlier knowledge of quantum mechanics and solid state physics and instil a knowledge and understanding of the important concepts in these subjects. To
provide essential background as a basis for condensed matter and quantum Mechanics and Statistics.
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Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Quantum Theory & Solid State
School
EPS
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B20QD
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
on
Credits
15
8. Syllabus
Quantum Theory:
Operators and observables. Dirac’s notation for quantum states. Commutators and good quantum numbers. Schrodinger, Heisenberg and Interaction pictures. Angular
momentum. Spin. The hydrogen atom.
Solid State:
Crystal structure, band structure, effective mass, donors and acceptors.
Brillouin Zones.
Doping & pn junctions .
Fundamental optical absorption, exciton absorption, recombination processes, luminescence.
Low Dimensional Structures.
Multiple quantum wells and superlattices.
Cyclotron resonance.
Hall effect.
Quantum Hall effect.
Drude model for conductivity
Phonons in solids – ball & spring model diatomic chains.
Specific heat of solids.
Superconductivity.
2/3
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Quantum Theory & Solid State
School
EPS
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B20QD
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
on
Credits
15
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills




Personal Abilities
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
Achieve a critical understanding of the principal theories of solid state physics.
Achieve a critical understanding of quantum mechanics.
Ability to analyse advanced problems in solid state physics and quantum mechanics.
Apply the theories of solid state physics and quantum mechanics to problems or situations not previously encountered.
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
Personal abilities are embedded in the module. The module provides the opportunity to :
 Apply the advanced core knowledge expected of a professional physicist to gain professional level insights,
 Communicate effectively with professional level colleagues
 Interpret, use and evaluate critically a wide range of data to solve problems of both a familiar and unfamiliar nature
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Use a range of ICT skills with on-line materials and web links to support the learning process
 Apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge
 Exercise significant initiative and independence in carrying out learning activities and researching information
10. Assessment Methods
Method
11. Re-assessment Methods
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
(if applicable)
Examination
3 hours
Method
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
100%
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
19/04/08
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
Version
Number
2
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