Key Information
About the content
This course from MIT’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering introduces the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, solid state physics, and electricity and magnetism. We use these principles to describe the origins of the electronic, optical, and magnetic properties of materials, and we discuss how these properties can be engineered to suit particular applications, including diodes, optical fibers, LEDs, and solar cells.
In this course, you will find out how the speed of sound is connected to the electronic band gap, what the difference is between a metal and a semiconductor, and how many magnetic domains fit in a nanoparticle. You will explore a wide range of topics in the domains of materials engineering, quantum mechanics, solid state physics that are essential for any engineer or scientist who wants to gain a fuller understanding of the principles underlying modern electronics.
- Discover the quantum mechanical origins of materials properties
- Explain the origin of electronic bands in semiconductors
- Learn the operating principles of solid state devices such as solar cells and LEDs
- Understand the materials physics that underlies the optical and magnetic behavior of materials
Prerequisite
Differential and Integral Calculus University-level Electricity & Magnetism Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering, or a knowledge structure and bonding in solid state materials
Syllabus
Part 1: Lattice Vibrations
- Hamiltonian Mechanics
- Vibrations in Crystals–Phonons
- Elastic Bandgap
Part 2: Quantum Mechanics
- Schrödinger’s Equation
- 1-Dimensional Problems
- Measurements—The Ehrenfest Theorem
- Three Dimensions—Hydrogen Atom
Part 3: Electronic Band Structures
- Periodic Potential
- Central Equation
- Understanding Band Diagrams
- Engineering conductivity in Semiconductors
Part 4: Solid-State Devices
- PN Junctions
- Solar Cells
- LEDs
Part 5: Optical Properties
- Wave Equation
- E/M Waves at Interfaces
- Photonic Crystals
Part 6: Introduction to Magnetism
- Classification of Magnets
- Hysteresis in Ferromagnetic Materials
- Magnetic Domains
Instructors
Polina Anikeeva
Class of 1942 Associate Professor in Materials Science and Engineering
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Jessica Sandland
Lecturer & Digital Learning Scientist
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Platform
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