Entry requirements

120 credits with Quantum Mechanics, Atom and Molecular Physics and Solid State Physics. Quantum Mechanics, Advanced Course and Solid State Physics II are recommended.

Learning outcomes

The course gives a good basic and advanced knowledge for further doctoral studies within subjects as theoretical magnetism, experimental magnetism and applications of magnetic materials. On completion of the course, the student should be able to

• explain the central aspects of magnetic materials e g the reason for magnetic order and magnetic phenomena.
• calculate the exchange interaction at different magnetic model system (for example the free electron gas and the Heitler London models).
• derive the Stoner criterion, describe the wave function for magnetic excitations in the Heisenberg model and carry out calculations by means of the Hubbard model in reduced dimensions.
• derive the expression for magneto crystalline anisotropy in materials by means of perturbation theory.

Content

The aim of the course is to give a basic understanding of the central concepts in magnetism, the quantum mechanical interactions that underlie magnetic order and collective excitations in magnetic materials. The course elucidates on energy related applications of magnetism like soft magnetic materials in transformers and generators as well as within nanosciences, e.g. magnetic memories and magnetic data storage. Theoretical models that describe magnetic materials will be elucidated e g density functional theory, model Hamiltonians as the Heisenberg and Hubbard Hamiltonians and point charge models. The effect of relativistic phenomena in magnetism will also be treated, for example magnetic anisotropy, magneto-optic effects and dichroism.

Instruction

Lessons that are given in English when necessary. The course is given every second year alternating with Solid state theory.

Assessment

Assignments and a project work.

Other directives

The course is given every second year alternating with Solid state theory.