Should I take solid state physics?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on an undergraduate considering taking a solid state physics course, specifically using Kittel's text, despite not having completed a formal quantum mechanics class. The importance of having a solid understanding of certain quantum mechanics concepts is emphasized, particularly the particle in a one-dimensional well and the Schrödinger equation. Participants highlight that while solid state physics is grounded in quantum mechanics, much of the course focuses on statistical mechanics and developing a conceptual understanding of solids rather than heavy mathematical computations. The consensus is that the course is worthwhile and engaging, with many recommending a review of key quantum mechanics topics before starting the class.
ZetaOfThree
Gold Member
Messages
109
Reaction score
23
I am an undergrad and for the most part I am looking for a good physics class to take. I am considering taking solid state physics at the level of Kittel as its one of the only physics classes offered at the undergrad level this semester that I haven't taken. I haven't taken quantum mechanics yet (it's not offered this semester), but I have a decent grasp of it from self-study. I mention this because quantum is a prereq. What things from quantum should I be solid with for studying solid state physics? Also, do you think solid state is interesting? I'm not really taking this class for research interests or anything, just to further my general knowledge of physics. I plan to talk to the professor about all this, but I am still curious of your opinions. What do you think?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Solid-State Physics (and the Kittel text) are incredibly interesting. One of my favorite classes. Even though solid-state physics is built on a foundation of QM, most of the math you use to solve problems is statistical mechanics and the rest is typically developed in the course. When I took it QM was used to develop the idea of quantum states in a periodic lattice, but after that explicit QM wasn't used much.

My guess is you'll do fine if you're at least familiar with QM, but yeah, ask the professor.
 
  • Like
Likes 1 person
Solid State Physics is very worth it. It was my favorite class next to statistical mechanics; it is a class which is not about math and number crunching, but more about learning how to think about solids, much like statistical mechanics is a class about learning how to think about large systems. You learn something new every time.

You need to know how to solve for a particle in a 1-D well and know what the Schrodinger equation is though.
 
  • Like
Likes 1 person
Thanks very much for the replies! I decided to enroll in the course but it doesn't start for a few days. What things from QM, stat mech, etc do you think it would be useful to review before the course starts?
 
Particle in a box. That is usually how they start in solid-state.
 
1. Fermi-Dirac distribution
2. Know what the Schrodinger equation is
3. Know how to solve it for a particle in a 1-D well.
 

Thread 'What major topics are there in arithmetic and what order to learn them?'

TL;DR Summary: What topics to cover to safely say I know arithmetic ? I am learning arithmetic from Indian NCERT textbook. Currently I have finished addition ,substraction of 2 digit numbers and divisions, multiplication of 1 digit numbers. I am moving pretty slowly. Can someone tell me what topics to cover first to build a framework and then go on in detail. I want to learn fast. It has taken me a year now learning arithmetic. I want to speed up. Thanks for the help in advance. (I also...
View full post »

Thread 'Help with my plan to get into research about bound states'

Hi community My aim is to get into research about atoms, specifically, I want to do experimental research that explores questions like: 1. Why do Gallium/Mercury have low melting points 2. Why are there so many exceptions and inconsistencies when it comes to explaining molecular structures / reaction mechanisms in inorganic and organic chemistry 3. Experimental research about fundamental Quantum Mechanics, such as the one being followed by Hiroshima university that proved that observing...
View full post »

Thread 'What is computational physics and what is the best way or method to learn computational physics?'

guys i am currently studying in computer science engineering [1st yr]. i was intrested in physics when i was in high school. due to some circumstances i chose computer science engineering degree. so i want to incoporate computer science engineering with physics and i came across computational physics. i am intrested studying it but i dont know where to start. can you guys reccomend me some yt channels or some free courses or some other way to learn the computational physics.
View full post »

Similar threads

Requesting Resources and Animations to understand Solid State Physics
Replies
4
Views
2K
Asking For Information On Internships (I am interested in quantum information, solid-state, and many-body physics)
Replies
5
Views
1K
Courses Is It Wise to Delay Stat Mech for Solid State Based on Professor Reviews?
Replies
8
Views
2K
Programs Physics vs Engineering for Solid State Research
Replies
22
Views
3K
Courses Calc III and Solid State Physics courses in same semester?
Replies
4
Views
1K
Materials or Solid State Course?
Replies
1
Views
1K
Solid State Should I buy Kittel's Introduction to Solid State Physics?
Replies
8
Views
3K
"The theoritical minimum" modern equivalent for solid state?
Replies
6
Views
2K
Solid State Physics Student
Replies
1
Views
496
Solid State Electronics: Is It Worth Pursuing?
Replies
3
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top