Solid State Physics -1

1- Course Plan

a. Course Introduction and Outcomes: Condensed Matter Physics is a core

course for MSc (Physics) students. This course contains classification and
properties of condensed or solid state materials, which can be explained on the
basis of arrangement of atom, ions and electron motion, spin etc. The main
objective of this course is to learn about properties and their response to internal
and external stimuli. This goal can be achieved by learning crystal structure,
crystal binding, lattice dynamics, electron, electron distribution theories and the
concept of energy bands. The quantum and statistical mechanics concepts and
formalisms are frequently used to understand the above features in condensed
or solid materials.

b. Course information

Course title Condensed matter physics

Departament Physics
Course type Core
Program level MSc
Contact hours 45
Facilities required Class room, computers
with internet facility

c. Prerequisite
Students’ should be able to
1- Formulate and solve differential equations and calculate integrals with proper limits
for a given scenario.
2- Construct and solve time dependent and time independent Schrodinger’s wave
equation for different situations and derive corresponding wave functions.
3- Explain and apply the Maxwell Boltzmann, Fermi Dirac and Boson-Einstein statistics
for given scenarios and solve the problem
4- Write and solve matrixes, vector and tensors algebra.
5- Apply different quantum mechanical operators to different functions and solve them.
6- Apply the different electromagnetic theories and principle to given scenarios and solve
the problem
7- Apply the statistical physics theories and principle to given scenarios and solve the
problem
 d. Course outcome of the course

1- Students will be able to analyze different types of matter depending on nature

of chemical bonds and their properties
2- Students will be able analyze the crystal structures by applying crystallographic
parameters.
3- Students will be able to determine the crystal structure by analysis of XRD data
4- Students will be able to evaluate and analyze the electrical and optical properties
of solids
5- Students will be able to analyze electron transport and energy related problems
by applying quantum mechanical principles
6- Students will be able to analyze the lattice vibration phenomenon in the solids

e. Mapping of CO with Syllabus

SNo CO Number Marks Syllabus topics

of
classes
1- Students will be able to 7 16 Classification of solids and matter:
analyze different types of crystalline, non-crystalline, nano-
matter depending on nature phase solids, liquids. Macroscopic
chemical bonds and their description of condensed matter.
properties Type of bonding, Ionic crystals, van
der Waals bonds, . Covalent and
metallic bonds

2- Students will be able 7 18 Crystal structure, Bravais lattices,

analyze the crystal Crystal system, unit cell, Miller
structures by applying indices, reciprocal lattice
crystallographic
parameters.
3- Students will be able to 5 8 X-ray, neutron, electron diffraction.
determine the crystal Bragg's law in direct and reciprocal
structure by analysis of lattice. Structure factor. Diffraction
XRD data techniques.
4- Students will be able to 10 22 Lattice dynamics, harmonic
analyze the lattice oscillations, Dispersion relation,
vibration phenomenon in Summerfield theory, phonons for
the solids one- dimensional Mono-atomic and
Diatomic linear lattices, Physical
difference between optical and
acoustic branches
5- Student will be able to 6 18 Electric, optical, thermal
apply the theory for the conductivity properties of solids,
 analysis of electrical and specific heat, free electrons in
optical properties of solids magnetic field

6- Students will be able to 10 20 Nearly free electron approximation.

analyze electron transport Energy band theory, Formation of
and energy related problem energy bands. Gaps at Brillouin zone
by apply quantum boundaries, distinction between
mechanical principle metal, insulator, semiconductor,
weak and tight binding
approximations, concept of holes

2-Pedagogical and assessment suggestion for each learning outcomes

CO 1: Students will be able to analyze different type of matter depending on types

chemical bonds and their properties

S.No. LO-1 Pedagogical Brief Description Sample Technology

Decision
1 Classify Flipped Teacher: provides reading Communication with
classroom and practice material students (LMS),
Differentiate (online/ book and literature sending reading
reference) through materials, taking
Calculate Learning Management formative assessment,
System (LMS: Moodle giving feedback
Choose /Edmodo)
Students: will work on
Sketch these outside class (in class
there will be TBL-team
based learning)

Active Teacher : Make groups of

Cooperative students (3/4 per groups)
Learning and provide numerical
problems based on the
content (different set of
problem can be provided
to different groups)
Students: Students will
solve in group and
exchanging their answers
with other groups;
comment and compare
with other groups solutions
 Assessment Plan for LO-1

Type of Frequency Delivery from Data collection Learning Decision

assessment of the learner Verification making
assessment
After Team based Online questions Written/ verbal
achieving learning (MCQ) by feedback to
Formative
LO (appendix) Learning each student
management
system (LMS)
Summative Quiz I, after Test paper I Hard copy Evaluate the
12-15 hard copy and
lectures grade

Example question for formative assessment

1. If the repulsive energy is of the form Ce-r/a , determine C and a for NaCl if the
cohesive energy/ion pair is 6.61 eV, and the interatomic separation is 0.282 nm.
Given that the ionisation energy of Na is 5.138 eV and the electron affinity of
Cl-1 is 3.61 eV.
a. 63.22 x 103
b. 6.322 x 103
c. 63.22 x 10-3
d. 6.322 x 10-3

$% & -
2. The total energy of an ionic solid is given by an expression 𝐸 = '() +
+ +.
*

where a is Madelung constant, r is the distance between the nearest neighbours

in the crystal and B is a constant. If ro is the equilibrium separation between the
nearest neighbours then the value of B is
𝛼𝑒2 +23
a.
36𝜋𝜀𝑜
𝛼𝑒2 +23
b.
4𝜋𝜀𝑜
2𝛼𝑒2 +2:2
c.
9𝜋𝜀𝑜
𝛼𝑒2 +2:2
d.
36𝜋𝜀𝑜
e.

3. The potential of a diatomic molecule as a function of the distance r between

@ B
the atoms is given by 𝑉 (𝑟) = + A + + :& . The value of the potential at
equilibrium separation between the atoms is:
a. -4a2/b
b. -2a2/b
c. -a2/2b
 d. -a2/4b

4. In an insulating solid which one of the following physical phenomena is the

consequence of the Pauli’s exclusion principle?
a. Ionic conductivity
b. Ferromagnetism
c. Para magnetism
d. Ferroelectricity

5. The solid phase of an element follows van-der-Waals bonding with inter-

C D
atomic potential V(r) = + A + + :& where, P and Q are constants. The bond length
can be expressed as
FD HI
e. E C G
D HI
f. E C G
D HI
g. EFCG
C HI
h. E G
D

6. Why are the glass panels installed on buildings not transparent?

a. Because of unwanted deposits
b. Because it becomes old
c. Because it is brittle
d. Because of a thin coating

7. Which of the following is a crystalline solid?

a. Anisotropic substances
b. Isotropic substances
c. Super cooled liquids
d. Amorphous solids

8. The degree of freedom at triple point in unary phase diagram for water
is________
a. 2
b. 3
c. 0
d. 1

Example questions for summative questions

1- Develop a new form of equation for the potential energy of a pair of atom or
molecules from the equation
 𝑎 𝑏
𝑈 (𝑟) = − M
+ O
𝑟 𝑟
Determine from this equation, expressions for (a) potential energy at r = ro
(Umin); (b) the spacing at the points of inflection.

2- Assume the energies of two particles in the field of each other is given by the
function U(r) = -(a/r) + (b/r8), where a and b are constants and r is the distance
between the centres of the particles.
Show that if the particles are pulled apart, the bond will break as soon as
QIB S/U
𝑟 = P @
R = 𝑟V 4.5S/U
3- (a)Determine the inter-ionic equilibrium distance between the sodium and
chlorine ions in a sodium chloride molecule if the bond energy is 3.84 eV and
the repulsive exponent is 8.
(b) At the equilibrium distance, how much (in percent) is the contribution to the
attractive bond energy by electron shell repulsion?

4- Consider a 100 Watt bulb emitting light in all directions. Suppose that a metallic
sodium surface is kept at a distance of 1 m from the bulb. Estimate the time
needed by an electron in an Na atom to receive an energy of 1 eV. Assume that
all the energy is absorbed by the top layer of the surface and all the energy
absorbed by an Na atom is taken up by one electron.

5- Consider the three physical states of matter; rank them in ascending order of
kinetic energy of the molecules/atoms; repeat the same for potential energy.

6- The binding energy per molecule of NaCl is 7.95 eV. The repulsive term of the
potential is of the form K/r9, where K is a constant. The value of the Madelung
constant is…..(up to three decimal place)

7- The unit cell parameter of NaCl is 5.56 Å and the modulus of elasticity along
[100] direction is 6´1010 N/m2 . Estimate the wavelength at which an
electromagnetic radiation is strongly reflected by the crystal. At. Wt. of Na=23
and of Cl=37.

Resources:
1- http://stp.clarku.edu/simulations/
2- https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/materials-science-and-engineering/3-091sc-introduction-
to-solid-state-chemistry-fall-2010/bonding-and-molecules/self-assessment/
 CO 2: Students will be able analyze the crystal structures by applying crystallographic
parameters.

S.No. LO Pedagogical Brief Description Sample Technology

Decision
2 Draw Teacher: Provides Technology: Applet with
ACL (Active worksheet for Applets and worksheet, PPT
Find Cooperative numerical problems (based LMS: Formative
Learning) on applet and LO) assessment and students’
Calculate Student: will work in feedback
Scaffolding group and groups will
Compute for problem evaluate and comment on
solving each other’s solution with
Determine (appendix) teacher’s involvement

Assessment Plan for LO-2

Type of Frequency Delivery Data Learning Verification Decision
assessment of from the collection making
assessment learner
After MCQ Online Formal written feedback /verbal
Formative
achieving MCQ feedback
LO LMS
Summative Quiz I, Test paper I Hard copy Evaluate the hard copy and
after 15-18 grade
classes Weightage for this portion: 25 %

Resource
1. http://escher.epfl.ch
2. http://www.jcrystal.com/steffenweber/java.html
3. http://www.webmineral.com/crystall.shtml#.XGKKHC-B10

Example questions for formative assessment

1- The structure factor of a single cell of identical atoms of (form factor f ) is given
by 𝑆Z[\ = 𝑓 ∑ 𝑒𝑥𝑝a−2𝜋𝑖c𝑥d ℎ + 𝑦d 𝑘 + 𝑧d 𝑙jk, where (𝑥d , 𝑦d , 𝑧d ) is the coordinate
of an atom, and h, k, l are Miller indices. Each of the following options represent
allowed diffraction peaks from the corresponding set of planes in FCC and BCC
structures. Which one of the following statement is correct?
a. Bcc : (200);(110);(222) fcc: (111);(311);(400)
b. Bcc : (210);(110);(222) fcc: (111);(311);(400)
c. Bcc : (200);(110);(222) fcc: (111);(211);(400)
d. Bcc : (200);(210);(222) fcc: (111);(211);(400)

2- Metallic monovalent sodium crystallizes in body centred cubic structure. If the

length of the unit cell is 4´10-8 cm, the concentration of conduction electrons in
metallic sodium is
 a. 6.022 x 1023 cm-3
b. 3.125 x 1022 cm-3
c. 2.562 x 1021 cm-3
d. 1.250 x 1020 cm-3

3- A lattice has the following primitive vectors (in Å ) 𝑎⃗ = 2(𝑖 + 𝑗), pp⃗ 𝑏 =
2 (𝑘 + 𝑗), 𝑐⃗ = (𝑖 + 𝑗). The reciprocal lattice corresponding to the above lattice
is
(
a. BCC lattice with cube edge of E F G ÅHS
b. BCC lattice with cube edge of (2p) ÅHS
(
c. FCC lattice with cube edge of E F G ÅHS
d. FCC lattice with cube edge of (2p) ÅHS

4- The Miller indices of a plane passing through the three point having coordinates
(0,0,1), (1,0, 0), (1/2,1/2, 1/4) are
a. (2,1,2)
b. (1,1,1)
c. (1,2,1)
d. (2,1,1)

5- If the ionic radii of Mn and S are 0.80 and 1.84 nm respectively, the structure
of MnS will be
a. Cubic close pack
b. Primitive cubic cell
c. Body centred cubic
d. NaCl type

6- Consider the atomic packing factor (APF) of the following lattices

I. Simple cubic
II. Body centred cubic
III. Face centred cubic
IV. Hexagonal close packed
Which two of the above structure have equal APF?
a. I and II
b. III and IV
c. I and III
d. II and IV

7- For a closed packed BCC structure of hard spheres, the lattice constant a is
related to the sphere radius R as
a. a = 4R √3
b. a= 2R √3
 c. a= 2R √2
d. a= 4R √2

8- The two dimensional lattice of graphene is an arrangement of Carbon atoms

forming a honeycomb structure of lattice spacing a, as shown below. The carbon
atoms occupy the vertices.

(A) The Wigner-Seitz cell has an area of

a. 2a2
Q 2
b. r a
F

c. 6 √3a2 (d)
d. 3√3a
2

(B) The Bravais lattice for this array is a

a. Rectangular lattice with basis vectors d1 and d2

b. Rectangular lattice with basis vectors c and c
c. Hexagonal lattice with basis vectors a1 and a2
d. Hexagonal lattice with basis vectors b and b 12

9- The vector direction normal to the plane (110) is:

a. [001]
b. [010]
c. [100]
d. [011]
e. [110]

Example questions for summative assessment

1. Show that the maximum radius of the sphere that can just fit into the void at the
body centre of the fcc structure coordinated by the facial atom is 0.414 r, where
r is the radius of the atom.
2. Draw a unit cell of the NaCl crystal. Describe the structure in terms of a lattice
and a motif. What is the kind of bonding in the solid? Calculate the packing
fraction. Is this a close packed structure?

3. Compute the atomic density of (100), (110) and (111) planes in SC, BCC, FCC
crystals. Include only those atoms whose centre of mass lies on the plane.

4. Atom, which can be assumed to be a hard sphere of radius R, is arranged in FCC

lattice with lattice constant a, such that each atom touches its nearest
neighbours. Take the centre of the radius r (assumed to be hard sphere) is to be
accommodate at the position (0, a/2, 0) without distorting the lattice. The
maximum value of r/R is……

5. Determine following parameters for the given Fig.

a. Determine the Miller indices of the plane sketched below

b. Determine the direction normal to the plane
c. Determine the spacing between equivalent planes of this kind (in terms of
the lattice spacing, a)
d. Determine the angle between this plane and a (100) plane.

6. Molybdenum (Mo) crystalizes in a body-centered cubic structure with a

lattice constant of a = 3.147 Angstroms. Answer the following questions
about Mo.
a. Compute the number of Mo atoms per cm3.
b. Compute the center-to-center spacing of nearest neighbour Mo
atoms in Angstroms.
c. Assuming that the radius of a Mo atom is one-half the center-to-
center spacing of nearest neighbours, compute the percent of the
cubic volume, a3, that is occupied by Mo atoms.
d. Compute the surface density of Mo atoms on a (110) plane in
number per cm2.
 CO 3: Students will be able to determine the crystal structure by analysis of XRD data

S.No. LO-3 Pedagogical Brief Description Sample

Decision Technology
3 Determine Hands on Teacher: Lab visit XRD facility,
experience (how X ray works); Computer
Find (Experiment Lecture by teacher on
in X ray lab) data analysis
Calculate and Students:
lecture Experimental data
Compute collection and analysis

Explain Problem Teacher: ask students

solving to write all the formula
Scaffolding from concept. Then
find out which one or
combinations will be
applied to solve a given
problem
Students: will follow
the teacher’s
instructions and solve
the numerical/problems

Assessment Plan For LO-3

Type of Frequency Delivery from Data Learning Verification Decision

assessment of the learner collection making
assessment
Report on lab Hard or Written feedback on
After lab visit by each soft copy report
visit student by LMS
Formative
After MCQ Verbal in Verbal feedback during
achieving class OR class
LO or after by LMS Or written feedback by
few classes or online LMS
Summative Quiz I , Test paper I Hard copy Evaluate and grade the
after 15-18 hard copy ;
classes Weightage for this
portion: 25 %

Resources

1- https://myscope.training
 2- https://nanohub.org/groups/ece305s1

Example questions for formative assessment

1- Consider X-ray diffraction from a crystal with a face centred cubic lattice. The
lattice plane for which there is no diffraction peak is

a. (2,1,2)
b. (1,1,1)
c. (2,0,0)
d. (3,1,1)

2- The distance between the adjacent planes in CaCO3 is 0.3 nm. The smallest
angle of Bragg’s scattering for 0.03 nm X-ray is (apply)

a. 2.9 °
b. 1.5 °
c. 5.8 °
d. 0.29 °

3- If the (0 0 2) planes diffract at ( 2 theta or theta ) 60 °, then lattice parameter is

a. 2.67 Å
b. 3.08 Å
c. 3.56 Å
d. 5.34 Å

4- The NaCl crystal has the cell-edge a = 0.563 nm. The smallest angle at which
Bragg reflection can occur corresponds to a set of planes whose indices are

a. (1 0 0)
b. 110
c. 111
d. 200

Example questions for summative assessment

1- Figure (below) shows the first four peaks of the x-ray diffraction pattern for
copper, which has an FCC crystal structure; monochromatic x-radiation having
a wavelength of 0.1542 nm was used.
a. Index (i.e., give h, k, and l indices) for each of these peaks.

b. Determine the interplanar spacing for each of the peaks.
c. For each peak, determine the atomic radius for Cu and compare these
with the values presented in the data
 2- Rajni Sharma conducted an experiment with her X-ray diffractometer. A
specimen of the Tantalum (Ta) is exposed to a beam of monochromatic x-ray
of wavelength set by the Kα line of titanium (Ti). Calculate the value of the
smallest Bragg angle, θ hkl at which Rajni can expect reflection from the Ta
specimen

Hint: The smallest θ is associated with the largest d spacing (λ= 2dsinθ)

3- Calculate the acceleration potential that will result in electron diffraction from
the (311) plane of platinum (Pt) at an angle θ of 33.3°. The lattice constant of
platinum, a, has a value of 3.92 Å. (CO-3)

4- If you wanted to increase the angle at which the reflection described in part (a)
is observed, would you replace the Mo target with a silver (Ag) target or a
copper (Cu) target? Explain the reasoning behind your choice.
(understanding/analyse)

5- A Debye-Scherrer powder diffraction experiment using incident copper (Cu) Kα

radiation resulted in the following set of reflections expressed as at the
following values of 2θ: 38.40° , 44.59°, 64.85°, 77.90°, 81.85°, 98.40°, 11.20o
a. Determine the crystal structure
b. Calculate the lattice constant, a.
c. Assume that the crystal is a pure metal and on the basis of the hard-
sphere approximation, calculate the atomic radius.

CO 4: Students will be able to evaluate and analyze the electrical and optical properties
of solids.

S.No. LO-4 Pedagogical Decision Brief Description Sample

Technology
4 Compare Project/ problem Explained below Computer
Based Learning OR
Calculate Guided inquiry with The teacher provides a
scaffolding question to a group of
Choose students. Students will
propose a solving method.
Justify The teacher can observe
and provide feedback to
Determine groups if needed. Students
interpret the known
Draw concepts and their inquiry
questions and summarize
their findings. The teacher
can evaluate the team
performance through
 different formative
assessments.

Teacher : Teacher will

provide the problem
Problem solving by Students: will solve
Peer instruction problem first individually
and then in groups.
Process will be followed
by classroom discussion

Assessment Plan for LO-4

Type of Frequency Delivery Data Learning Decision
assessment of from the collection Verification making
assessment learner
Presentation Hard copy Marks with
After
by group feedback/ verbal
achieving
and peer feedback
Formative LO
evaluation
Discussion Progress Verbal Feedback
Every week with teams of the
work
Summative Quiz II, Test paper Hard copy Evaluate and grade
after 33- II the hard copy;
36 classes Weightage 25 %

Resources
1- http://ee.sharif.edu/~sarvari/solidstate/solidstate.html
2- https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/materials-science-and-engineering/3-091sc-introduction-
to-solid-state-chemistry-fall-2010/electronic-materials/13-band-theory-of-
solids/MIT3_091SCF09_hw13_sol.pdf

Assessment Rubrics (Presentation and peer evaluation) are attached in the

appendix
Example of problem: Optical properties of materials

Problem/project based learning:

Problem 1: Mr. X was facing the problem of high electric bill for his office. He
consulted the staff and found that electricity bill can be reduced by using sunlight for
office lighting. Mr. X contacted to a glass making company. He wanted to design an
office room for him in which sunlight can replace electric lighting and the intensity can
also be adjusted. Your team has to find out the design (coating material on glass) of
glass suitable for his office room.
Problem 2: Suggest modification to glass coating to get maximum conductivity with
highest transparency. (scaffolding)

Students’ role:
1- Analyze the problem and find out the objectives
2- Identify the learning target
3- Prepare work plan and team work plan (separate table can provide with group
members’ names and date)
4- Material you want
5- Evidence of success for each

Teacher’s Role
1- Teacher will provide problem/project to each group (4-5 students each group)
2- Teaching plan
Knowledge and Students already Teacher has to Teacher has to
skill needed know teach before teach during
giving problem problem solving

Example questions for Formative assessment

1. The electrical conductivity of copper is approximately 95% of the electrical

conductivity of silver, while the electron density in silver is approximately 70%
of the electron density in copper. In Drude’s model, the approximate ratio
(tcu/tAg ) of the mean collision time in copper (tcu ) to the mean collision in (tAg)
is
a. 0.44
b. 1.50
c. 0.33
d. 0.66

2. Consider a one-dimensional chain of the atoms with lattice constant a. the

energy of an electron with wave vector k is e (k) = µ - gcos(ka), where µ and g
are constants. If an electric field E is applied in the positive x direction, the time
dependent velocity of an electron is (B is a constant)
%x
a. Proportional to cos E𝐵 − ℏ
𝑎𝑡G
b. Proportional to E
c. Independent of E
%x
d. Proportional to sin E𝐵 − ℏ
𝑎𝑡G
3. The atomic density of a solid is 5.85 ´ 1028 m-3. Its electric resistivity is 1.6 ´
10-8 W-m. Assume that electrical conduction is described by the Drude model
(classical theory), and that each atom contributes one conduction electron. The
drift mobility (in m2N-s) of the conduction electron is
a. 6.67 x 10-3
b. 6.67 x 10-6
c. 7.63 x 10-3
d. 7.63 x 10-6

4. (Using the data from previous question) the relaxation time (mean free path) in
second of the conduction electrons is
a. 3.98 x 10-15
b. 3.79 x 10-14
c. 2.84 x 10-12
d. 2.64 x 10-11

5. An intrinsic semiconductor with mass of hole mh, and the mass of electron me is
at a finite temperature T. If the top of the valance band energy is Ev and the
bottom of the conduction band energy is Ec , the Fermi energy of the
semiconductor is

x~ •x€ Q M
a. 𝐸} = E F
G − ' 𝑘- 𝑇 𝑙𝑛 E Mƒ G
„
[… † Q M
b. 𝐸} = E F
G + ' (𝐸‡ + 𝐸ˆ ) 𝑙𝑛 E Mƒ G
„
x~ •x€ Q Mƒ
c. 𝐸} = E F
G + ' 𝑘- 𝑇 𝑙𝑛 E M G
„
[… † Q M
d. 𝐸} = E F
G − ' (𝐸‡ + 𝐸ˆ ) 𝑙𝑛 E Mƒ G
„

12
6. A thin metal film of dimension 2 mm ´ 2 mm contains 4 ´ 10 electrons. The
magnitude of the Fermi wavevector of the system, in the free electron
approximation, is
a. 2√𝜋 × 10U 𝑐𝑚HS
b. √2𝜋 × 10U 𝑐𝑚HS
c. √𝜋 × 10U 𝑐𝑚HS
d. 2𝜋 × 10U 𝑐𝑚HS

7. A phosphorous doped silicon semiconductor (doping density: 1017/cm3) is

heated from 100 oC to 200 oC. Which of the following statement is correct
a. Position of the fermi level will move towards conduction band
b. Position of dopant level will toward conduction band
c. Position of Fermi level moves towards the middle of the energy gap
d. Position of dopant level moves towards the middle of energy gap
8. If minority carrier electrons are injected at the left face of a p-type
semiconductor, and there is significant recombination in the semiconductor,
and the right contact enforces equilibrium conditions (i.e. Dn = 0 ), how does
the steady-state minority electron profile, Δn(x), vary with position?
a. Dn (x) decreases linearly with position from left to right.
b. Dn (x) increases linearly with position from left to right.
c. Dn (x) decreases as the square of distance from left to right.
d. Dn (x) increases as the square of distance from left to right.

9. The Einstein Relation, D= 𝜇 kBT /q (symbols have their usual meaning) relates
the mobility to the diffusion coefficient. Under what conditions is it valid?
a. always
b. only at equilibrium or very near equilibrium
c. only for parabolic band semiconductors
d. only for direct gap semiconductors
e. only for indirect gap semiconductors

10. How do we determine the electric field vs. position, x, from an energy band
diagram?
a. The electric field is EC (x).
b. The electric field is EV (x).
c. The electric field is Ei (x).
d. The electric field is obtained by flipping EC (x) upside down.
e. The electric field is the slope of EC (x).

11. Comparing the electrical conductivity to the lattice thermal conductivity, which
of the following statements is true?
a. The electrical conductivity can be positive or negative, but the lattice
thermal conductivity is always positive.
b. The lattice thermal conductivity varies over many orders of magnitude.
c. The electrical conductivity varies over many orders of magnitude.
d. The two are related by the Wiedmann-Franz Law.

12. Diffusion involves random thermal motion and scattering. If the thermal
velocity is vT and the average distance between electron (or hole) scattering
2
events is l, what is the diffusion coefficient in cm /s?
a. D = nT l/2
b. D = nT /(2l)
c. D = l/2nT
d. D = nT l2/2
Example questions for summative assessment
14
1- An unknown material is transparent to light of frequencies ( ν ) up to 1.3 ´ 10
Hz. Draw a band structure for this material demonstrating the above information.

2- A material exhibits an “optical band edge” (transition from absorption of light

14
to transmission) at n = 5 ´ 10 Hz .
a. Draw a diagram which reflects the indicated optical behavior.
b. What do you expect the color of this material to be when viewed in
daylight?
c. What is the band gap (Eg) of this material?

3- Determine the degree of degeneracy of the energy level (38 h2/8ma)2 of a

particle in a cubical potential box of side a.

4- A pure crystalline material (no impurities or dopants are present) appears red in
transmitted light.
a. Is this material a conductor, semiconductor or insulator? Give reasons
for your answer .
b. What is the approximate band gap (Eg) of this material in eV?

5- The donor concentration in a sample of n-type silicon is increased by a factor of

100. The shift in the position of the fermi level at 300 K, assuming the sample
to be non-degenerated is … ……..(meV)

6- The number density of electrons in the conduction band of a semiconductor at a

given temperature is 2 ´ 1019 cm-3. Upon lightly doping this semiconductor with
donor impurities, the number density of conduction electrons at the same
temperature become 4 ´ 1020 m-3. The ratio of majority to minority charge carrier
concentration is ……………

7- The band gap of an intrinsic semiconductor is Eg= 0.72 eV and mh = 7 me . At

300 K the Fermi level with respect to the edge of the valence band (in eV)………

8- What is the Debye frequency for Copper, if its Debye temperature is 315 K. Also
find the Debye specific heat at 10 K and 300 K. (evaluate / analysis. thermal)
 9- Consider the conduction band of Si. Typically, only the states near the bottom
of the conduction band are occupied with electrons. Assume that all states within
0.1 eV of the bottom of the band are occupied. Answer the following questions:
a. How many electrons are in the conduction band? Express your answer
3
per cm .
b. Compare this number to the atomic density of Si.

CO 5: Students will be able to analyze electron transport and energy related problems
by applying quantum mechanical principles
Sl. LO-5 Pedagogical Brief Description Sample
No. Decision Technology
5 Derive ACL Teacher: will provide Applet with
worksheet based on applet; computer
Solve Problem Give clear instruction to
solving avoid ambiguity and set http://jas.eng.buffal
o.edu/education/se
Calculate the rule for class. Monitor micon/fermi/functio
and guide as and when nAndStates/functio
Compute needed. nAndStates.html
Students: will solve
worksheet in groups.
Team performance will be
evaluated through peer
assessment, discussion
between groups

Assessment plan for LO-5

Type of Frequency Delivery Data Learning Verification Decision

assessment of from the collection making
assessment learner
Worksheet Computer: Written Feedback on
After LMS worksheet
achieving (Moodle/
Formative Learning Edmodo)

Question Verbal Verbal feedback

Every class during class

Summative Quiz 2 Test Paper I Hard copy Evaluation and grading of

hard copy
Weightage : 25 %

Assessment questions
Formative Worksheets are provided with applets, if teacher wants, can
modify them
 Example questions for formative assessment

1- The energy gap and lattice constant of an indirect band gap semiconductor are
1.875 eV and 0.52 nm respectively. Assume the dielectric constant of the
material to be unity. When it is excited by broadband radiation, an electron
initially in the valence band at k = 0 makes a transition to the conduction band.
The wavevector of the electron in the conduction band, in terms of the
wavevector kmax at the edge of the Brillouin zone, after the transition is closest
to
a. kmax/10
b. kmax/100
c. kmax/1000
d. 0

2- The band energy of an electron in a crystal for a particular k-direction has the
form e (k) = A-Bcos2ka, where A and B are positive constants and 0 < ka < p.
The electron has a hole-like behaviour over the following range of k;
( Q(
a. '
< 𝑘𝑎 < '

(
b. F
< 𝑘𝑎 < 𝜋
(
c. 0 < 𝑘𝑎 < '
( Q(
d. F
< 𝑘𝑎 < '

3- Consider electrons in graphene, which is a monoatomic layer of carbon atoms.

If the dispersion relation of the electrons is taken to be e (k) = ck (where c is
constant) over the entire k-space, then the Fermi energy ef depends on the
number density of electrons r as
:
a. 𝜀} ∝ 𝜌&
b. 𝜀} ∝ ρ
&
c. 𝜀} ∝ 𝜌‘
:
d. 𝜀} ∝ 𝜌‘

4- A one- dimensional linear atomic chain contains two types of atoms of masses
m1 and m2 (where m2 > m1), arranged alternately. The distance between
successive atoms is the same. Assume that the harmonic approximation is valid.
At the first Brillouin zone boundary, which statement is correct ?

a. The atoms with mass m2 are at rest in the optical mode, while they
vibrate in the acoustical mode
b. The atoms of mass m1 are at the rest in the optical mode, while they
vibrate in the acoustical mode
 c. Both types of atoms vibrate with equal amplitudes in the optical as well
as acoustical mode
d. Both types of atoms vibrate, but with unequal, non-zero amplitudes in
the optical as well as acoustical mode

5- Consider the energy E in the first Brillouin zone as a function of the magnitude
of the wave vector k for a crystal of lattice constant a. Then

a. The slope of E versus k is proportional to the group velocity

(
b. The slope of E versus k has its maximum value at |𝑘| = @
( (
c. The plot of E versus k will be parabolic in the interval − @ < |𝑘| < @
( (
d. The slop of E versus k is non-zero for all k the interval − @ < 𝑘 E@ G

6- For a free electron gas in two dimensions, the variation of the density of states,
N(E) as a function of energy E, is best represented by

7- For an electron moving through a one-dimensional periodic lattice of

periodicity a , which of the following corresponds to an energy eigenfunction
consistent with Bloch’s theorem?
(• (•
a. 𝜓 (𝑥 ) = 𝐴𝑒𝑥𝑝 E𝑖 P @ + 𝑐𝑜𝑠 EF@ GRG
(• F(•
b. 𝜓 (𝑥 ) = 𝐴𝑒𝑥𝑝 E𝑖 P @ + 𝑐𝑜𝑠 E @
GRG
F(• F(•
c. 𝜓 (𝑥 ) = 𝐴𝑒𝑥𝑝 E𝑖 P @
+ 𝑖𝑐𝑜𝑠ℎ E @
GRG
(• (•
d. 𝜓 (𝑥 ) = 𝐴𝑒𝑥𝑝 E𝑖 P @ + 𝑖 —F@ —RG

8- The Bloch theorem states that, within a crystal, the wave function 𝜓 (𝑟⃗), of an
electron has the form
 a. 𝜓 (𝑟⃗) = u(𝑟⃗)𝑒 ™[p⃗ +⃗ , where u(𝑟⃗) is an arbitrary function and 𝑘 pp⃗ is an
arbitrary vector
b. 𝜓 (𝑟⃗) = u(𝑟⃗)𝑒 ™[p⃗ +⃗ , where u(𝑟⃗) is an arbitrary function and ppp⃗ 𝐺 is an
reciprocal lattice vector
c. 𝜓 (𝑟⃗) = u(𝑟⃗)𝑒 ™[p⃗ +⃗ , where u(𝑟⃗) = uc𝑟 pp⃗ + ppp⃗
𝐴 j, 𝐴⃗ is lattice and 𝐺ppp⃗ is?
reciprocal lattice vector
d. 𝜓 (𝑟⃗) = u(𝑟⃗)𝑒 ™[p⃗ +⃗ , where u(𝑟⃗) = uc𝑟 𝐴 j, 𝐴⃗ is lattice and ppp⃗
pp⃗ + ppp⃗ 𝑘 is an
arbitrary vector

9- The band structures (energy versus wavevector) shown below are all drawn on
the same scale. The Fermi energy is indicated with a horizontal line, and the
filled states are shaded.

Which of these statements is incorrect?

a. In the case of (iv), there are two contributions of opposite sign to the
Hall current
b. (ii), (iii), and (iv) show a gap in the electronic density of states
c. (ii) and (iv) are likely to be the best conductors
d. (i) and (iii) have a vanishing electronic density of states at the Fermi
energy.

10- Which of the following is true about the density of states in k-space? (rem)
a. It depends on the dimensionality of the semiconductor.
b. States are spaced uniformly in k-space.
c. It is independent of the semiconductor’s band structure.
d. All of the above.

11- Bloch oscillations—the back-and-forth motion of particles in a periodic

potential subject to a constant force—are not typically observed for metallic
electrons in real materials. Why?
a. The electronic dispersion in a crystal is very nearly parabolic.
b. An applied electric field couples equally and oppositely to electrons and
holes.
c. Scattering times for electrons (due to lattice defects) are too short.
 ℏ& [œ&
12- In a two dimensional band structure energy is given by 𝐸 c𝑘• 𝑘› j = FM ∗
+
ℏ& [ž
&
FM ∗
. What is the shape of the constant energy “surface.” ?
a. a line
b. a circle
c. an ellipse
d. a sphere
e. an ellipsoid

13- If the number density of free electrons in three dimensions is increased eight
times, its Fermi temperature will
a. increase by a factor of 4
b. decrease by a factor of 4
c. increase by a factor of 8
d. decrease by a factor of 8

14- Which band structure below best describes graphene? (ana)

ℏ& Ÿ &
a. 𝐸 = 𝐸ˆ + FM∗
ℏ& Ÿ &
b. 𝐸 = 𝐸‡ − ∗
FM¡

c. 𝐸 = ±ℏ𝜈} 𝑘
d. 𝐸 = ±ℏ𝜈} 𝑘 F

Examples for Summative assessment

1- Given that the fermi energy of gold is 5.54 eV, the number density of electron
is ………´1028 per m-3

2- In the class, to obtain the expression for Fermi function, we created an N

electron state from an N+1 electron state. Also, we assumed that 𝑓𝑖𝑁 = 𝑓𝑖𝑁+1
as N is very large. 
If you are asked to create an N-1 electron state from an N
electron state, suggest the necessary changes you will make in the relevant
equations (given in the book/note) in order to get the accurate expression for the
Fermi function.

3- (a) Write the full Hamiltonian that describes the electron motion in solids.
Explain each term of the Hamiltonian. What conditions will you apply to accept
the free electron theory?

(b) If you recall our discussion in the class, we applied certain boundary
condition to solve the Hamiltonian.
 (i) Justify the boundary condition. 

(ii) Sketch to compare the eigenstates of a metallic bulk and the corresponding
thin film.

4- Figure shows the parabolic E versus k relationship in the conduction band for
an electron in two particular semiconductor materials. Determine the effective
mass (in units of the free electron mass m) of the two electrons

5- Show that when the lattice constant, a, is sufficiently small, the numerical
dispersion reduces to the parabolic dispersion:

E(k) -Uo = h2k2/2m*

6- Derive an expression for the density-of-states in energy for a 1D

semiconductor for states near the centre of the band at kx = 0 . Assume a
valley degeneracy of gV .
a) Assume a parabolic dispersion near kx = 0 .
b) Assume a linear dispersion near kx=0

Resource: https://ecee.colorado.edu/~bart/book/book/title.htm

CO 6: Students will be able to analyze the lattice vibration phenomenon (thermal

properties) in the solids

S.No. LO-6 Pedagogical Brief Description Sample

Decision Technology
6 Solve Jigsaw Jigsaw is cooperative learning Computer
Correlate technique. Teacher: will make main for
Justify groups with 5/6 students in each; one literature
subtopic will be providing to each survey,
student in all groups Formative
Students: students with same subtopic assessment
will work in group and teach subtopic feedback,
to their peers in main group after sharing
preparing information
with class
Teacher will provide problems to
students
 Problem Student will first think how to procced
solving by individually and then will discuss in
Think-Pair- group and solve the problem
Share Process will be followed up by teacher

Assessment Plan for LO-6

Type of Frequency Delivery from Data Learning Decision

assessment of the learner collection Verification making
assessment
Softcopy Written Feedback
1- Students’ /hard copy on worksheet on
generated group sheet
Formative After
question (computer)
achieving
2- peer Verbal feedback
LO
evaluation
3- MCQ

Summative End Test paper Hard copy Evaluate and

session grading of the hard
(may copy; Weightage:
contain 50%
pervious
LOs)

Preparation for jigsaw for teacher

1. Choose a suitable topic and write 5-6 subtopics for the same
2. Divide your class in groups (of students). Each should have 5-6 members
(depending on subtopics)
3. Give one subtopic to each group member.
4. The member of each group, having same subtopic can form group and work
together on the topic
5. After achieving command on the subtopic, the group members will go to their
parent group and teach their respective subtopic to other group members.

Teacher’s Role:
1- Selection of topic and subtopics
2- Assign the subtopic to student (teacher can do background work for finding
suitable student for a subtopic)
3- Help the student in making work plan, progressing forward and giving
feedback
4- Assessment plan

Student’s Role
 1- Students will work in group (Topic group) to learn their subtopic
2- They will teach their subtopic to the members of their parent group

Subtopic: (representative/examples)
• Lattice Vibrations of 1D crystals
• Monoatomic chain
• Diatomic chain
• Periodic boundary conditions
• Lattice Vibrations of 3D crystals
• Born–von Karman boundary condition

Assessment by student’s generated questions:

1- Teacher will provide stems for questions generation
2- Student will generate the question within parent group (jigsaw group)
(different type question MCQ, True/false, short questions)
3- Along with teacher, there will be peer assessment with rubric

Assessment Rubric and peer evaluation given in appendix

Example questions for formative assessment

1- Suppose the frequency of phonons in a one-dimensional chain of atoms is

proportional to the wave vector. If n is the number density of atoms and c is the
speed of the phonons, then the Debye frequency is
a. 2pcn
b. √2 𝜋𝑐𝑛
c. √3 𝜋𝑐𝑛
(ˆO
d. F
2- Consider a metal which exactly obeys the Sommerfeld model exactly. If Ef is
the fermi energy of the metal at T=0 K and RH is its Hall coefficient, which of
the following statements is correct
Q/F
a. 𝑅¦ ∝ 𝐸}
F/Q
b. 𝑅¦ ∝ 𝐸}
HQ/F
c. 𝑅¦ ∝ 𝐸}
d. 𝑅¦ is independent of Ef

3- A linear diatomic lattice of lattice constant a with masses M and m (M > m)

are coupled by a force constant C. the dispersion relation is given by

S/F
©•M ©•M F 'ª & Ÿ@
𝜔F = 𝐶 E ©M G ± P𝐶 F E ©M G − ©M 𝑠𝑖𝑛F F
R which one of the following
statement is correct?
 a. The atom vibrating in transverse mode correspond to the optical
branch
b. The maximum frequency of the acoustic branch depends on the mass
of the lighter atom m
c. The dispersion of the frequency in the optical branch is smaller than in
the acoustic branch
d. No normal modes exist in the acoustic branch for any frequency
greater than the maximum frequency at k = p/a

4- In a cubic crystal, atom of mass M1 lie on one set of planes and atoms of the
mass M2 lie on planes interleaved between those of the first set. If C is the
force constant between nearest neighbors planes, the frequency of the lattice
vibrations for the optical phonon branch with wave vector k =0 is
S S
a. r2𝐶 E© + © G
: &

S S
b. r𝐶 EF© + © G
: &

S S
c. r𝐶 E© + F© G
: &
d. 0

5- The dispersion relation for 1 D monoatomic crystal with lattice spacing a which
interact via nearest neighbor harmonic potential is given by
Ÿ@
𝜔 = —sin — where a is constant of appropriate unit (common data for 2 and 3 )
F

The group velocity at boundary of the Brillouin zone is

a. Zero
b. 1
&
c. r« @F
S « @ &
d. F
r
F
e. τ <τm <τE .
f. τ≈τm≈τE.

6- Why is it that optical phonon scattering requires the initial kinetic energy to be
greater than the optical phonon energy?
a. So that phonon absorption does not occur.
b. So that that phonon absorption is greater than phonon emission.
c. So that there are final states to scatter to.
d. So that that stimulated phonon emission equals spontaneous phonon
emission.
 e. None of the above.

Example questions for summative exam

1- The dispersion relation for phonons in a one dimensional monoatomic Bravais

lattice with lattice spacing a and consisting of ions of masses M is given by

Fˆ
𝜔 (𝑘) = r © [1 − cos (𝑘𝑎)], where 𝜔 is the frequency of oscillation, k is the
wavevector and c is the spring constant. For the long wavelength mode

(l >> a), find the ratio of phase and group velocities.

2- The dispersion relation of electrons in a 3 dimensional lattice in the tight binding

approximation is given by
𝜀[ = 𝛼𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑘• 𝑎 + b𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑘› 𝑎 + g𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑘® 𝑎 Where a is lattice constant and a, b, g
are the constants with the dimension of energy. Find out the effective mass
( ( (
tensor at the corner of the first Brillouin zone E@ , @ , @ G.
3- Consider a metallic nanowire. Apply the Sommerfield theory to
a. Deduce the electron specific heat capacity and bulk modulus of the wire
b. Obtain an expression for temperature dependent thermo power

Note:
i. All the sessions can be accomplished by lecture and any other pedagogy
ii. All the examples have taken from GATE,UGC-NET previous years question
paper, IIT Madras exam questions and NPTEL

Reference
i. https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/physics/8-231-physics-of-solids-i-fall-2006/assignments/
ii. https://sites.ualberta.ca/~kbeach/phys308/docs/Final.pdf
iii. https://nptel.ac.in/courses/112108150/pdf/MCQs/MCQ_m2.pdf
iv. https://nanohub.org/courses/ece656/offerings
v. https://phys.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/University_Physics/Book%3A_Univer
sity_Physics_(OpenStax)/Map%3A_University_Physics_III_-
_Optics_and_Modern_Physics_(OpenStax)/9%3A_Condensed_Matter_Physic
s/9.A%3A_Condensed_Matter_Physics_(Answers)

Acknowledgment
We acknowledge the open source contents which are used as reference materials in this
document.