2017/18 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
PHYS3422 Magnetism in Condensed Matter
15 creditsClass Size: 60
Module manager: Dr Thomas Moore
Email: t.a.moore@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2017/18
Module replaces
PHYS 3421 Magentism in Condensed MatterThis module is not approved as a discovery module
Objectives
On completion of the module students should be able to:- describe the quantum mechanical nature of the molecular field: the exchange interaction;
- recognise the necessity of anisotropy for stable ferromagnetism;
- recall the origin and consequences of the demagnetising field;
- discuss domains and simple micro-magnetics;
- recall the consequences of magnetism on transport properties of materials;
- describe current issues in ultrathin film magnetism - surface anisotropy, interlayer coupling etc;
- describe current issues in magnetic heterostructures and devices;
- recall how the physical phenomena described are accessed experimentally.
Skills outcomes
Problem modelling and solving
Syllabus
Introduction to basic concepts. Measurements of magnetisation. Exchange and Heisenberg Hamiltonian. Quantum and Classical Paramagnetism. Magnetisation vs. temperature: Molecular field, Stoner model, magnons, critical regime. Anisotropy and Superparamagnetism. Stoner-Wohlfarth particles. Origins of anisotropy. Exchange anisotropy. Magnetostatic self-energy and demagnetising factors. Shape anisotropy. Domain structures and domain walls. Simple micromagnetics. Magnetization dynamics. Permanent magnets and energy products. Low-dimensional ordering, perpendicular anisotropy. Spin-dependent band structures - spin-dependent transport. Anisotropic, giant, and tunnelling magnetoresistance. Spin torque. Magnetotransport measurements. Spin-valves, magnetic tunnel junctions, read-write heads and MRAM.
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Workshop | 4 | 1.00 | 4.00 |
| Lecture | 22 | 1.00 | 22.00 |
| Private study hours | 124.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 26.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150.00 | ||
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Student appraisals.Methods of assessment
Exams
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 2 hr 30 mins | 100.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 100.00 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 08/10/2014
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