How bad is kittel? Enlist for SSP?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the speaker's dilemma of choosing between two physics courses for their final year of undergraduate studies - Solid State Physics and Physics of Fluids and Soft Matter. They seek advice from someone who has taken both courses and ultimately decide to go with Solid State Physics, despite concerns about the textbook by Kittel. They also mention that they have had a course on crystallography which may have prepared them for the concepts in Solid State Physics. The conversation ends with the speaker acknowledging that the entire book is not covered in one course and that they are studying in a different system of education with a bachelor/master program.
  • #1
nonequilibrium
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Hello,

I'm entering my third year of physics (and also the last undergraduate year in Europe) and I can select a few courses myself. In particular, in the moment I'm wondering between "Solid State Physics" and "Physics of Fluids and Soft Matter" (they would both be introductory).

I've asked a guy who took both classes last year (I can't because I'm already taking a chunk of math) and he summarized it as: fluids is not so interesting and really easy and the lectures notes are confusing; SSP's classes are also confusing and uses Kittel which he found to be horrible, but he considered the material itself to be very interesting (and difficult).

I know the guy well and I think our interests coincide on these matters at least, and based on the above review I'm heavily considering solid state (also because it seems that it's often given to undergraduates, and I'm going to do my masters abroad so that's also a pro for choosing solid state) [at first I was considering fluids because the description on the university site hinted at the use of statistical physics and that it's about complex systems, things which really fascinate me, but the guy that took it was able to tell me that the thermodynamics was mainly writing down the free energy and then minimalizing it, which he called "almost interesting"] but the thing is, I looked at the amazon ratings for Kittel and the ratings are horrible! So how bad is it for an introduction? Apparently we treat the first 7 or 9 chapters of the book. And say it is bad, is there something I can do to make it better? I mean, is there something I can get to accompany it so that the book won't "hurt" me?

Thank you!
 
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  • #2
I personally loved Kittel. I didn't find anything confusing or unclear. Also our professor followed the book quite strict. It must me noted that I had a course on crystallography before I did the course on SSP.

Positive points are that the book has many good, descriptive figures to go with the text and formulas. It's not loaded with mathematical rigour (ideal for an introductory text) but not too low in rigour as to make everything fuzzy. I think those reviews on Amazon are also subject to people failing or almost failing the course.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Ah, I see, yes many bad reviews on amazon state it is bad as an undergraduate course. Hm, do you feel you might've not liked it if you hadn't had the preparation?
 
  • #4
I think I would have struggled with the concept of reciprocal space which is hugely important in SSP, but that's not Kittel's fault. I found it a thorough introduction. Is the whole book covered in that one course?
 
  • #5
^ above post spam?

@ eXorikos:
I remember him saying the first 7 or first 9 chapters
 
  • #6
We did the first 9 and that was ok for me. Next year we'll cover the rest in another course as part of the master programme (I'm studying in a different system than undergrad/grad, we have bachelor/master).
 
  • #7
bachelor/master here too, taking this in my third and final bachelor year

thanks for your advice, you calmed my worries a bit
(but other replies are of course always welcome)
 

FAQ: How bad is kittel? Enlist for SSP?

How bad is the condition of kittel?

The condition of kittel, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus, can vary greatly from person to person. It is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects multiple organs and tissues in the body. Some people may experience mild symptoms, while others may experience more severe symptoms.

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Can kittel be cured?

Currently, there is no cure for kittel. However, with proper management and treatment, many people with kittel can lead normal and fulfilling lives. Treatment may include medications to manage symptoms, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring of the condition.

What is the role of SSP in managing kittel?

SSP, or Specialized Service Provider, can play a crucial role in managing kittel. They are medical professionals who specialize in treating and managing autoimmune diseases like kittel. They can provide personalized treatment plans, monitor the condition, and offer support and guidance for managing symptoms and improving overall quality of life.

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