Symmetry and condensed matter physics: a computational approach

Unlike existing texts, this book blends for the first time three topics in physics - symmetry, condensed matter physics and computational methods - into one pedagogical textbook. It includes new concepts in mathematical crystallography; experimental methods capitalizing on symmetry aspects; non-conventional applications such as Fourier crystallography, color groups, quasicrystals and incommensurate systems; as well as concepts and techniques behind the Landau theory of phase transitions. Adopting a computational approach to the applicationof group theoretical techniques to solving symmetry related problems, it dramatically alleviates the need for intensive calculations usually found in the presentation of symmetry. Writing computer programs helps the student achieve afirm understanding of the underlying concepts, and sample programs, based on Mathematica, are presented throughout the book. INDICE: Preface; 1. Symmetry and physics; 2. Symmetry and group theory; 3.Group representations: concepts; 4. Group representations: formalism and methodology; 5. Dixon's method for computing group characters; 6. Group action andsymmetry projection operators; 7. Construction of the irreducible representations; 8. Product groups and product representations; 9. Induced representations; 10. Crystallographic symmetry and space-groups; 11. Space groups: Irreps; 12. Time-reversal symmetry: color groups and the Onsager relations; 13. Tensorsand tensor fields; 14. Electronic properties of solids; 15. Dynamical properties of molecules, solids and surfaces; 16. Experimental measurements and selection rules; 17. Landau's theory of phase transitions; 18. Incommensurate systems and quasi-crystals; References; Bibliography; Index

• ISBN: 978-0-521-82845-1
• Editorial: Cambridge University Press
• Encuadernacion: Cartoné
• Páginas: 922
• Fecha Publicación: 01/03/2008
• Nº Volúmenes: 1
• Idioma: Inglés