Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title MAGNETIC STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION
Code PHYS497
Coordinator Dr JD Major
Physics
Jon.Major@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2017-18 Level 7 FHEQ First Semester 7.5

Aims
  • To build on the third year modules Condensed Matter Physics
  • To develop an understanding of the phenomena and fundamental mechanisms of magnetism in condensed matter

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the module the student should have:

  • A basic understanding of the quantum origin of the magnetism and magnetic moments
  • An introduction to the Weiss molecular field theory of ferromagnetism
  • A basic understanding of spin waves in ordered magnets
  • An introduction to the techniques of neutron scattering and magnetic x-ray scattering
  • An appreciation of simple magnetic structures and magnetic excitations
  • An introduction to new magnetic materials

Syllabus
1  1
  • Atomic structure basis for atomic magnetic moments in solids
  • Definition of Magnetisation, magnetic susceptibility, diamagnetism, paramagnetism, Brillouin function
  • Magnetic moments of Rare Earth ions, Transition metal ions
  • Crystal field, quenching of orbital angular momentum in transition metal ions, Jahn-Teller effect
  • Magnetic ordering, Mean Field Theory, M vs T curve, critical exponents
  • Mechanisms of magnetic interaction, exchange interaction, direct exchange, superexchange, RKKY interaction
  • Magnetic Anisotropy, magnetic structures
  • Magnetic excitations, magnons
  • Magnetometry, VSM, SQUID magnetometers
  • Neutron diffraction, magnetic resonant x-ray diffraction
  • Mossbauer spectroscopy
  • New materials - magnetic multilayers

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Lecture - Lectures cover core material for the course

Tutorial - Discussion of set problems

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 16
Lectures cover core material for the course
  2
Discussion of set problems
      18
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 57
TOTAL HOURS 75

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Written Exam  1 1/2 hours  1  100  August resit for PGT students only. Yr3 and Yr4 students resit at the next normal opportunity.    Assessment 1 Notes (applying to all assessments) Written Examination  
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.
Explanation of Reading List: