las3rjock said:For a semi-technical book, I recommend The Solid State by Rosenberg. In response to the previous reply, the correct spelling is "Chandrasekhar", and I'm pretty sure it's not the astrophysicist ("Chandrasekhar" is a relatively common Indian last name). Finally, for a non-technical book, The New Science of Strong Materials by Gordon and Ball looks pretty good and is readily available.
ozymandias said:Try "Why things are the way they are", by Chandrasekar (hope I've spelled his name right :) ) - yep, the astrophysics guy.
Condensed matter refers to the study of the physical properties of materials in solid or liquid form, including their structure, behavior, and interactions at the atomic and molecular level.
Condensed matter is relevant to everyday life in many ways, as it encompasses the study of materials such as metals, plastics, and ceramics that are used in a variety of industries and technologies. Understanding the properties of these materials can lead to advancements in fields such as electronics, energy production, and medicine.
The main difference between solid and liquid condensed matter is the arrangement of particles. In a solid, the particles are tightly packed and have a fixed position, whereas in a liquid, the particles are more loosely arranged and can move around. This results in different physical properties, such as rigidity and flow.
Some current research topics in condensed matter physics include the study of quantum materials, topological insulators, and superconductivity. Other areas of interest include nanoscience, soft matter, and complex systems.
Condensed matter physics can be a complex subject, as it involves a deep understanding of quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics. However, there are many popular science books available that explain the concepts in an accessible way, making it easier for non-experts to understand.