The students are expected to learn how to apply the principles of modern physics to study ad predict the physical properties of nanostructures. By the end of the course, students will be able to: 1) Knowledge and Understanding - Demonstrate knowledge of the physical properties of solid surfaces. - Explain the electronic and optical properties of solids and nanostructures. 2) Analytical Skills - Evaluate the effects of quantum confinement on electron motion in nanostructures. - Analyze and predict band structures, including those of low-dimensional systems. 3) Applied Competences - Apply the principles of solid state physics to the understanding of nanodevices. - Employ physics-based models to predict the properties of nanomaterials.

- Elementary physics (mechanics, thermodynamics, wave optics, elements of structure of matter) - Elements of modern physics - Elements of electronics

Team 1 (4 ECTS) From classical physics to quantum mechanics (0,5 ECTS) Schrodinger equation. Measurement of a physical quantity. Indetermination principle (0,5 ECTS) Analysis of one-dimensional quantum problems, the Schroedinger's equation for an infinite array of potential wells, electrons in crystalline solids (1 ECTS) The gas of photons and phonons (the Bose-Einstein's distribution), the black-body problem, the electron gas (the Fermi-Dirac's distribution). (1 ECTS) Electronic properties of metals and semiconductors Photon-matter interaction (0,5 ECTS) Team 2 (4 ECTS) Surface and interface effects (1 ECTS) Heterojunctions, 2D electron gas and HEMT (1 ECTS) Low dimensionality systems (2 ECTS): quantum wells and quantum wires, the Landauer formula, tunneling through multiple barriers and resonant tunneling, Coulomb blockade, single-electron transistor, 2D materials. Team 1 and 2 (2 ECTS) Applications of quantum simulations to predict the band structures in solids (including low-dimensional systems) (2 ECTS)

The course consists of theoretical lectures and class practices. The latter include simple problem-solving activities closely connected to the lectures. In the final part of the Solid State Physics module, students will participate in a 9-hour computer laboratory, working in pairs. During the laboratory sessions, they will be guided by the instructor in applying the theoretical methods learned in class to predict the electronic properties of simple solids and nanostructures.

Team 1 P. Atkins "Molecular Quantum Mechanics" (Cambridge Univ. Press) H. Ibach and H. Luth "Solid-State Physics: An Introduction to Theory and Experiment" (Springer) N. W. Ashcroft ' N. D. Mermin, "Solid state physics" (Brooks Cole) C. Kittel "Introduction to Solid State Physics" (Wiley) Team 2 H. Luth "Solid Surfaces, Interfaces and Thin Films" (Springer) J. Davies "The physics of low-dimensional semiconductors" (Cambridge Univ. Press) Lectures notes produced by the teacher will be available on-line in the course web page.

Lecture slides; Lecture notes; Text book; Simulation tools;

Exam: Written test;

The Solid State Physics exam consists of a written test designed to evaluate the degree of understanding achieved by the students on the topics covered in the lectures (see Expected Learning Outcomes above). No supporting material is allowed during the exam. The exam assesses the comprehension of the physics of nanostructures discussed in class, as well as their applications in innovative electronic devices. In completing the exam, students must demonstrate the ability to rigorously present and discuss the physical models used to describe nanostructure behavior, clearly highlighting the underlying assumptions and approximations. The written test includes: 1) Multiple-choice and true/false questions on all course topics: - Each correct multiple-choice answer is awarded 2 points. - Each correct true/false answer is awarded 1 points. - Unanswered questions receive 0 points. - Wrong answers do not incur penalties. The maximum score for this section is 12/30. 2) Two open questions, each worth up to 8 points, for a maximum of 16/30. The allotted time for the written exam is 75 minutes. The written test is passed with a minimum score of 18/30. In addition, each laboratory group (composed of two students) must submit a laboratory report, which is mandatory and must be delivered by the end of the classes. The report is graded on a scale of 0 to 3 points, which is added to the written exam score. The evaluation criteria are as follows: - Multiple-choice and true/false questions: assess the student’s ability to reason on the physical laws and principles presented during the lectures. - Open questions: assess the ability to discuss advanced topics in solid state physics in a concise, clear, and rigorous manner, demonstrating both theoretical understanding and critical reasoning. - Laboratory report: assesses the ability to apply physics-based models to predict the electronic properties of solids and nanostructures, demonstrating practical and methodological skills. The final score of the integrated course is obtained by averaging the Solid State Physics score with the score achieved in the Electronic Devices module.

In addition to the message sent by the online system, students with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) are invited to directly inform the professor in charge of the course about the special arrangements for the exam that have been agreed with the Special Needs Unit. The professor has to be informed at least one week before the beginning of the examination session in order to provide students with the most suitable arrangements for each specific type of exam.