Frontiers in nanosciences

PHYS-407 / 3 credits

Teacher(s): Pivetta Marina, Rusponi Stefano

Language: English

Summary

The students understand the relevant experimental and theoretical concepts of nanoscale science. The course covers basic concepts like quantum size effects and their characterization techniques, and hot fields like nanoscale magnetism and spintronics for data storage applications, and 2D materials.

Content

1. Introduction to the concepts of nanoscale science
2. From atoms to bulk: electronic states
3. Imaging and manipulation at the atomic scale: scanning probe techniques
4. Magnetism at the nanoscale: magnetic data storage concepts (hard disk drive)
5. Spin transport: spin valve, GMR and TMR effects
6. Electron trasport in low-dimansional systems
7. Making the nanostructures: top-down and bottom-up approaches
8. Characterization of structural and electronic properties, for example by TEM, XPS, XAS
9. 2D materials

Learning Prerequisites

Recommended courses

Solid state physics

Learning Outcomes

  • Explain the differences between nanoscopic and macroscopic scale
  • Analyze the results of a scientific experiment
  • Design a scientific experiment

Transversal skills

  • Summarize an article or a technical report.
  • Access and evaluate appropriate sources of information.
  • Use a work methodology appropriate to the task.

Teaching methods

Ex cathedra with exercises in class

Assessment methods

oral exam (100%)

Resources

Bibliography

Introduction to Nanoscience, S.M. Lindsay, Oxford University Press

Physics of Surfaces and Interfaces, H. Ibach, Springer

Simple Models of Magnetism, R. Skomski, Oxford University Press

Quantum Transport: Atom to Transistor, S. Datta, Cambridge University Press

 

Ressources en bibliothèque

Websites

Moodle Link

In the programs

  • Semester: Fall
  • Exam form: Oral (winter session)
  • Subject examined: Frontiers in nanosciences
  • Courses: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Type: optional
  • Semester: Fall
  • Exam form: Oral (winter session)
  • Subject examined: Frontiers in nanosciences
  • Courses: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Type: optional
  • Semester: Fall
  • Exam form: Oral (winter session)
  • Subject examined: Frontiers in nanosciences
  • Courses: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Type: optional
  • Semester: Fall
  • Exam form: Oral (winter session)
  • Subject examined: Frontiers in nanosciences
  • Courses: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Type: optional

Reference week

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