QUANTUM MAGNETISM AND SUPERCONDUCTIVITY - 2017/8
Module code: PHYM062
Module provider
Physics
Module Leader
GINOSSAR E Dr (Physics)
Number of Credits
15
ECTS Credits
7.5
Framework
FHEQ Level 7
JACs code
F342
Module cap (Maximum number of students)
N/A
Module Availability
Semester 2
Overall student workload
Independent Study Hours: 117
Lecture Hours: 22
Tutorial Hours: 11
Assessment pattern
| Assessment type | Unit of assessment | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | COURSEWORK ASSIGNMENT I (SUPERCONDUCTIVITY) | 15 |
| Coursework | COURSEWORK ASSIGNMENT II (MAGNETISM) | 15 |
| Examination | EXAM | 70 |
Alternative Assessment
None.
Prerequisites / Co-requisites
The module will assume prior knowledge equivalent to the following modules. If you have not taken these modules you should consult the module descriptors - Quantum Physics (PHY2069). Solid State Physics (PHY2068) & From atoms to Lasers (PHY2062). Recommended: Advanced Quantum Physics (PHY3044).
Module overview
This module is designed to provide an introduction to the theory and applications of quantum magnetism and superconductivity and their applications in modern science and technology. Both superconductivity and magnetism are manifestations of electronic charge and spin, and constitute prime examples of phase transitions in metals. A range of phenomena that is resulting from these phase transitions is surveyed. A significant part of the module is devoted to modern technological applications in magnetometry, spintronics, and quantum information processing. Finally advanced topics such as an introduction to quantum phase transitions and quantum information processing are discussed.
Module aims
To provide an introduction to the important role that electronic interaction plays in solid-state physics leading to phase transitions in electronic systems. To provide a theoretical introduction to microscopic theory and phenomenology of both quantum magnetic phenomena and superconductivity. To provide Introduction to applications of solid state physics to metrology, micro-electronics and quantum information processing. To provide an introduction to the theory of quantum phase transitions.
Learning outcomes
| Attributes Developed | |
|---|---|
| Describe the electromagnetic behaviour of Type I superconductors in electromagnetic fields, and the London equations | KC |
| Exhibit a good understanding understanding of how the microscopic theory (BCS) is derived and how its predictions relate to experimental observations | KC |
| Demonstrate an ability to perform simple analytical derivations with second quantized operators | CT |
| Exhibit an understanding of phase transitions in condensed matter especially in the context of the Ginzburg-Landau theory | KCT |
| Understand the behaviour of SQUID devices and demonstrate ability to perform calculations regarding their properties | KC |
| Explain how quantum bits can be realised with superconducting circuits | KC |
| Apply the principles of exchange interactions to determine magnetic ordering in materials. | KC |
| Discuss how each type of ordered phase is associate with a broken symmetry and to solve problems related magnetic ordering. | KC |
| Evaluate spin diffusion and injection efficiencies in multi-layer systems. | KC |
| Solve quantum mechanical problems related to the operation of quantum gates. | KC |
Attributes Developed
C - Cognitive/analytical
K - Subject knowledge
T - Transferable skills
P - Professional/Practical skills
Module content
Superconductivity
Historical overview of superconductivity
Electrodynamics of superconductors
Introduction to BCS Theory
Ginzburg-Landau theory
Magnetism
Diamagnetism, Quantum mechanical (Brillouin) theory of paramagnetism
Magnetic order: Exchange interactions, Ferromagnetism & Currie temperature, anti-ferromagnetism, magnetism in metal (Pauli paramagnetism and itinerant ferromagnetism), domains.
Spintronics: Giant magnetoresistance (GMR), tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR), semiconductor spintronics (spin transistor, spin injection, spin dynamics)
Advanced Magnetic ordering, Broken symmetry, phase transitions, Landau theory of ferromagnetism, spin waves, quantum computing with spins
Special Topics
Examples: High-Tc superconductivity, topological insulators/superconductors
Methods of Teaching / Learning
The learning and teaching strategy is designed to provide:
a comprehensive theoretical treatment for the subject knowledge
practice in problem solving for the cognitive skills
The learning and teaching methods include:
“chalk and talk” lectures backed up with guided study to stimulate uptake of subject knowledge (2 hour per week x 11)
tutorial demonstration of solutions to key problems after students have attempted them for formative feedback (1 hour per week x 11)
Assessment Strategy
Assessment Strategy
analytical ability by solution of unseen problems in both coursework and exam
subject knowledge by recall of both “textbook” theory and important research articles in the exam
ability to generalize text-book theory by open-ended research component in the coursework
Thus, the summative assessment for this module consists of:
a 1.5 hour exam with 2 sections: Section A - Superconductivity (10 mark questions, answer 2 out of 3 ) & Section B: Magnetism (10 mark questions, answer 2 out of 3), weighted at 70%
2 assignments on specials topics, which will take a total of 40 hours of effort, each weighted at 15% - total of 30%
Formative assessment and feedback
Students will receive verbal feedback on progress with problems in tutorials and model solutions to the tutorial questions.
Reading list
Reading list for QUANTUM MAGNETISM AND SUPERCONDUCTIVITY : http://aspire.surrey.ac.uk/modules/phym062
Programmes this module appears in
| Programme | Semester | Classification | Qualifying conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics MPhys | 2 | Optional | A weighted aggregate mark of 50% is required to pass the module |
| Physics with Quantum Technologies MPhys | 2 | Compulsory | A weighted aggregate mark of 50% is required to pass the module |
| Physics with Nuclear Astrophysics MPhys | 2 | Optional | A weighted aggregate mark of 50% is required to pass the module |
| Physics with Astronomy MPhys | 2 | Optional | A weighted aggregate mark of 50% is required to pass the module |
| Physics MSc | 2 | Optional | A weighted aggregate mark of 50% is required to pass the module |
Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2017/8 academic year.