QUANTUM MAGNETISM AND SUPERCONDUCTIVITY - 2017/8

Module provider

Physics

Module Leader

GINOSSAR E Dr (Physics)

Number of Credits

15

Module cap (Maximum number of students)

N/A

Module Availability

Semester 2

Assessment pattern

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

Learning outcomes

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

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.