IN232 Concepts in Solid State Physics Assignment 2

Due on: 20th September 2019, 5 pm

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Problem 1:

For a d-dimensional system with dispersion relation for phonons given by 𝜔 = 𝐴𝑘 𝛾 (A is a constant),
show that the temperature dependence of the specific heat in the low temperature limit will be
proportional to 𝑇 𝑑/𝛾 .

Problem 2:

(a) Consider a metal subjected to an ac electrical field 𝑬(𝑡) = 𝑅𝑒{𝑬(𝜔)𝑒 −𝑖𝜔𝑡 }. Using the Drude
equation, obtain an ac conductivity 𝜎(𝜔). Sketch the real and imaginary parts of the 𝜎(𝜔) as
a function of 𝜔.
(b) Solve Maxwell’s equation to obtain a modified wave equation and show that the dielectric
𝑖𝜎(𝜔) 𝜔𝑝 2
constant 𝜀(𝜔) = (𝜀0 + 𝜔
). Show that 𝜀(𝜔) ≈ 𝜀0 (1 − 𝜔2
), for 𝜔𝜏 ≫ 1. Neglect 1/𝜏.
Estimate the Plasma frequency 𝜔𝑝 . (Use SI notations).
2
√𝜀(𝜔)−√𝜀0
(c) Calculate the reflectivity of metals 𝑅 = | | for 𝜔 < 𝜔𝑝 and discuss why metals are
√𝜀(𝜔)+√𝜀0
important components in mirrors.

(Note: You may look up Ashcroft and Mermin, Chapter 1 for guidance)

Problem 3:

(a) For a metal with density of electrons 𝑛 = 3 x 10 22 cm-3, calculate the Fermi energy and the
average kinetic energy per electron. (Take T = 0 K)

(b) For any given semiconductor, what temperature is required to have 1% probability of finding
an electron at an energy of 𝐸 = 𝐸𝐹 + 0.5 eV? Comment on the temperature and compare it
with the Fermi temperature of metals.

(c) Calculate the density of states g(E) for a system with linear energy dispersion 𝐸 = 𝐴𝑘
(𝐴 is a constant), in 2D and 3D.

Problem 4:

A copper wire has a cross-section of 0.01 mm2, length of 10 cm, and a residual resistivity ratio of 110.
If the phonons give a resistivity of 1.7  cm at room temperature and 50 n cm at 50 K, estimate the
wire resistance at room temperature and 50 K. Assume complete freeze out of phonons below 10 K.
Also, make an order of magnitude estimate of the thermal conductivity at 4 K.