PHYS 371 – Solid State Physics I

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the structural and physical properties of crystalline solids. The emphasis is placed on understanding how atomic arrangement and electronic structure determine the electrical, thermal, and optical properties of materials. Topics include crystal structures, reciprocal lattice and diffraction, bonding in solids, lattice vibrations and phonons, thermal properties, free-electron theory, band theory, and an introduction to semiconductors.

This course forms a foundation for advanced studies in condensed matter physics, materials science, and solid-state devices.