Introduction to Materials Science

10 credits

Syllabus, Master's level, 1FA651

Code
1FA651
Education cycle
Second cycle
Main field(s) of study and in-depth level
Materials Science A1N
Grading system
Pass with distinction (5), Pass with credit (4), Pass (3), Fail (U)
Finalised by
The Faculty Board of Science and Technology, 24 February 2025
Responsible department
Department of Physics and Astronomy
What is a course syllabus?

Entry requirements

120 credits in science/engineering with 75 credits in physics, chemistry, materials engineering and/or materials science. 15 credits in mathematics.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course the student shall be able to:

  • compare properties of different types of materials (metallic, polymeric and ceramic materials, as well as composites and semiconductor materials). 
  • analyse the relationship between the structure of different materials and their mechanical properties. 
  • describe production methods for technically important elements. 
  • calculate parameters for common structure types for crystalline substances. 
  • explain the meaning of common thermodynamic quantities and use thermodynamic data for calculations. 
  • explain the difference between the importance of kinetics and thermodynamics for the spontaneity of chemical reactions and the speed. 
  • use basic concepts in electrochemistry. 
  • perform database searches related to the structure of molecules and materials. 

Content

Material composition and structure, physical and chemical properties of solid and soft matter, basic concepts in group theory and symmetry, thermodynamics and phase diagrams, quantum mechanical description of material properties including discussions on solving the Schrödinger equation for atoms and solids, band theory and relativistic effects. Current and future technology as well as the importance of materials science in society are also discussed in the course. Data mining of material properties. Elements of surface science.

Instruction

Lectures, lessons, seminars and laboratory work.

Assessment

Written examination during the course and at the end of the course (6 credits). Laboratory work (4 credits).

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the disability coordinator of the university.