Applied Physics

Faculty of the Division of Engineering and Applied Sciences Offering Instruction in Applied Physics

Michael J. Aziz, Gordon McKay Professor of Materials Science
Henry Ehrenreich, Clowes Research Professor of Science (on leave spring term)
Daniel S. Fisher, Professor of Physics and Professor of Applied Physics (on leave spring term)
Jene A. Golovchenko, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics
Lene V. Hau, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics
R. Victor Jones, Robert L. Wallace Professor of Applied Physics
Efthimios Kaxiras, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics
Charles M. Lieber, Mark Hyman, Jr. Professor of Chemistry
Paul C. Martin, John H. Van Vleck Professor of Pure and Applied Physics
Eric Mazur, Harvard College Professor, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics
Venkatesh Narayanamurti, John A. and Elizabeth S. Armstrong Professor of Engineering and Applied Sciences and Professor of Physics (Dean of the Division of Engineering and Applied Sciences)
David R. Nelson, Mallinckrodt Professor of Physics and Professor of Applied Physics (on leave 2000-01)
Alfred A. Pandiscio, Senior Lecturer on Electronics on the Gordon McKay Endowment
Peter S. Pershan, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics
James R. Rice, Mallinckrodt Professor of Engineering Sciences and Geophysics
Allan R. Robinson, Gordon McKay Professor of Geophysical Fluid Dynamics
Frans A. Spaepen, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics (on leave fall term)
Howard A. Stone, Harvard College Professor and Gordon McKay Professor of Chemical Engineering and Applied Mechanics (on leave spring term)
Patrick Thaddeus, Robert Wheeler Willson Professor of Applied Astronomy and Professor of Applied Physics
Michael Tinkham, Rumford Professor of Physics and Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics (on leave spring term)
David A. Weitz, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics
Robert M. Westervelt, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics
Tai T. Wu, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics (on leave spring term)

Other Faculty Offering Instruction in Applied Physics

Bertrand I. Halperin, Hollis Professor of Mathematicks and Natural Philosophy

The Division of Engineering and Applied Sciences offers undergraduate and graduate courses in Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, Computer Science, Earth and Planetary Sciences, and Engineering Sciences. Recommended curricula may be obtained from the Academic Office, Pierce Hall 110a. Division faculty also offer several courses in the section entitled General Education Electives.

For Undergraduates and Graduates

Applied Physics 195. Introduction to Solid State Physics
Catalog Number: 1842
Henry Ehrenreich
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Fundamental physical properties of crystalline solids discussed in terms of the basic principles of classical and quantum physics. Crystal structure, lattice vibrations, specific heat, energy band theory of metals and semiconductors and insulators, electrical transport in metals and semiconductors, optical and magnetic properties, superconductivity.
Note: Designed as a first course in solid state physics for students with knowledge of elementary quantum mechanics (Physics 143a). Some knowledge of statistical physics (Physics 181) is also helpful, but not a formal prerequisite. Students who propose to take Applied Physics 295a in the spring term, and who have not previously taken a formal course in solid state physics, are strongly advised to take this course first. Students may wish to take Physics 195, whose content is very similar, when this course is bracketed.

[Applied Physics 197. Computational Physics Methods and Applications]
Catalog Number: 4655
Efthimios Kaxiras
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Develops computational approaches for understanding physical systems, and illustrates the applications of such approaches to specific problems. Methods to be covered include: numerical differentiation and integration, solution of ordinary and partial differential equations, eigensystems, and stochastic approaches like Monte Carlo and genetic algorithms for statistical sampling and optimization of multi-variable systems. Emphasis on developing the ability to handle both simple and complex physical systems which are analytically intractable. Examples will be drawn from several diverse fields of physics.
Note: Expected to be given in 2001–02. Familiarity with a programming language (like Fortran or C) is assumed. It is suggested that students may wish to take Physics 197 when this course is bracketed.
Prerequisite: Background in mathematics at the level of Applied Mathematics 105b, which may be taken concurrently.

Primarily for Graduates

Applied Physics 216 (formerly Applied Physics 216r). Optics and Quantum Electronics
Catalog Number: 4691
Lene V. Hau
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Develops the theoretical background needed to understand the most recent developments in optics and photonics. Topics include wave propagation in anisotropic media, glass fibers, planar dielectrics, and random media; interaction of light with matter; quantization of the radiation field; laser physics; photon statistics and noise; nonlinear optics; optical modulation and switching; acousto-optics; parametric devices; optical solitons; photon migration.
Prerequisite: Familiarity with basic electromagnetic theory and quantum mechanics.

Applied Physics 282. Solids: Structure and Defects
Catalog Number: 5737
Frans A. Spaepen
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 8:30–10.
Bonding, crystallography, diffraction, phase diagrams, microstructure, point defects, dislocations, grain boundaries.
Note: Intended for students planning to specialize in applied mechanics, materials science, solid state physics and chemistry.

[Applied Physics 284. Statistical Thermodynamics]
Catalog Number: 2257
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Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Ensembles and equilibrium in classical and quantum statistical mechanics, derivation of the laws of thermodynamics and of fluctuations, response to static and time-dependent perturbations, relaxation to equilibrium. Applications chosen from the degenerate electron gas, Bose-Einstein condensation and superfluidity, magnetism, phase transitions, and critical points.
Note: Expected to be given in 2001–02.
Prerequisite: Ordinarily, Physics 143a,b and Physics 181 or Engineering Sciences 181.

Applied Physics 292. Kinetics of Condensed Phase Processes
Catalog Number: 3733
Michael J. Aziz
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 11, and occasional laboratory demonstrations. EXAM GROUP: 4
Kinetic principles underlying atomic motions, transformations, and other atomic transport processes in condensed phases. Applies these and the principles of thermodynamics to the interpretation of diffusion, continuous transformations, nucleation, growth, coarsening, and other kinetic phenomena in bulk, thin film, and surface states. Fundamental principles are emphasized which are broadly applicable to a wide range of current research problems in atomic transport and in materials systhesis and processing. Selected applications will be discussed as time permits.
Prerequisite: An undergraduate-level course in thermodynamics.

[Applied Physics 293. Deformation of Solids]
Catalog Number: 6796
Frans A. Spaepen
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Phenomenology and theory of the mechanisms by which solids can deform, including elastic deformation, microscopic dislocation glide and the kinetics of slip, creep by dislocation motion, creep by diffusion of single ions, twinning, and fracture. The results are applied to several case studies using deformation mechanism maps.
Note: Expected to be given in 2001–02.
Prerequisite: Knowledge of thermodynamics and elements of crystal structure.

*Applied Physics 294hfr. Materials Science Seminar
Catalog Number: 4924
Michael J. Aziz and Frans A. Spaepen
Half course (throughout the year). Th., 1:30–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Special topics in materials science.
Prerequisite: Check with one of the instructors.

Applied Physics 295a. Introduction to Quantum Theory of Solids
Catalog Number: 6937
Efthimios Kaxiras
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 3
Electrical, thermal, magnetic and optical properties of solids will be discussed and treated based on statistical mechanics and quantum mechanical models using mostly single electron approximations. Metals, semiconductors, and insulators will be covered. The connections between theory, experiment and applications will be stressed throughout.
Prerequisite: Applied Physics 195 or equivalent, and one full quantum mechanics graduate level course similar to Physics 251a. Physics 251b may be taken concurrently.

Applied Physics 295b. Quantum Theory of Solids
Catalog Number: 3610
Bertrand I. Halperin
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Theoretical description of solids focusing on the effects of interactions between electrons, including dielectric response, Fermi liquid theory, magnetism, and superconductivity.
Prerequisite: Applied Physics 295a, quantum mechanics, or permission of instructor.

Applied Physics 296r. Superconductivity
Catalog Number: 0219
Michael Tinkham
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Introduction to theoretical and applied aspects of superconductivity. Topics include BCS microscopic theory, Ginzburg-Landau phenomenological theory, type I and II superconductors, Josephson effect and devices, fluctuation effects, the vortex-unbinding transition in 2-D systems, flux motion and dissipation in high-temperature superconductors, macroscopic quantum tunneling, the number-phase uncertainty relation, and the single-electron tunneling transistor.

[Applied Physics 298r. Materials Chemistry and Physics: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 7500
Efthimios Kaxiras, Michael J. Aziz, Frans A. Spaepen, and Howard A. Stone
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Each year materials-related topics are chosen from the following: Optical and Electronic Properties; Mechanical Properties; Surfaces and Interfaces; Nanoscale Phenomena; Organic Materials; Synthesis and Fabrication; Characterization Techniques; Solid State Devices and Structural Applications. Each chosen topic is discussed in about five didactic lectures. A paper and oral presentation on two of the principal topics under discussion will be assigned.
Note: Expected to be given in 2001–02. Taught by faculty from Chemistry, Physics, and the Division of Engineering and Applied Sciences who are associated with Harvard’s Materials Research Science and Engineering Laboratory. Suitable for graduate students with undergraduate concentrations in chemistry, engineering, or physics having present or potential research interests in this field.

Applied Physics 299r. Special Topics in Applied Physics
Catalog Number: 2103
Venkatesh Narayanamurti
Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Supervision of experimental or theoretical research on acceptable applied physics problems and supervision of reading on topics not covered by regular courses of instruction.
Note: Open to graduate students and A.B./S.M. candidates only. Students must arrange such work with a member of the Division. This course is ordinarily taken with the approval of the Committee on Higher Degrees in certain cases when a letter grade is required. Applicants should file a project sheet before study cards are filed. Project sheets may be obtained from the Academic Office, Pierce Hall 110a.

Graduate Courses of Reading and Research

Reading courses are odd-numbered; research courses are even-numbered.
*Applied Physics 327,328. Optical and Optoelectronic Information Systems and Technology
Catalog Number: 8209,4795
R. Victor Jones 1107

*Applied Physics 329,330. Electronic Circuits
Catalog Number: 3199,5428
Alfred A. Pandiscio 2601

*Applied Physics 331,332. Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
Catalog Number: 0467,1560
Robert M. Westervelt 6148

*Applied Physics 333,334. Condensed Matter and X-Ray Physics
Catalog Number: 1033,6126
Jene A. Golovchenko 1986

*Applied Physics 335,336. Theoretical Study of the Structure and Electronic Properties of Solids and Surfaces
Catalog Number: 7902,7903
Efthimios Kaxiras 3050

*Applied Physics 337,338. Growth and Properties of Nanostructures and Nanostructure Assemblies; Development and Application of New Probe Microscopies; Biophysics
Catalog Number: 3050,3051
Charles M. Lieber 3102

*Applied Physics 339,340. Topics in Electromagnetic Theory
Catalog Number: 4258,3127
Tai T. Wu 1051 (on leave spring term)

*Applied Physics 343,344. Topics in Electromagnetic Theory and Molecular Spectroscopy
Catalog Number: 2695,4213
Patrick Thaddeus 1398

*Applied Physics 347,348. Solid Mechanics in Seismology and Materials Physics
Catalog Number: 4033,3514
James R. Rice 7270

*Applied Physics 351,352. Statistical and Condensed Matter Theory
Catalog Number: 3992,3993
Paul C. Martin 2103

*Applied Physics 353,354. Theoretical Statistical Physics
Catalog Number: 5186,5941
Daniel S. Fisher 2600 (on leave spring term)

*Applied Physics 359,360. Quantum Optics and Molecular Physics
Catalog Number: 5760,3525
Eric Mazur 7952

*Applied Physics 363,364. Experimental Soft Condensed Matter Physics
Catalog Number: 8975,7242
David A. Weitz 2497

*Applied Physics 365,366. Experimental Condensed Matter: Ballistic Transport in Semiconductors, Nanostructures, and Tunneling Microscopy
Catalog Number: 9195,0425
Venkatesh Narayanamurti 5445

*Applied Physics 367,368. Topics on Condensed Matter Physics
Catalog Number: 6975,4173
David R. Nelson 5066 (on leave 2000-01)

*Applied Physics 369,370. Experimental Condensed Matter: Synchrotron X-Ray Scattering Studies of Interfacial Phenomena (Liquids and Solid)
Catalog Number: 2442,7532
Peter S. Pershan 1105

*Applied Physics 375,376. Superconductivity and Mesoscopic Physics
Catalog Number: 8203,4912
Michael Tinkham 2131 (on leave spring term)

*Applied Physics 381,382. Special Topics in Fluid Dynamics
Catalog Number: 4554,2668
Howard A. Stone 2073 (on leave spring term)

*Applied Physics 385,386. Dynamics of the Ocean; Interdisciplinary Modeling; Geophysical Fluid Dynamics
Catalog Number: 2878,2879
Allan R. Robinson 2133

*Applied Physics 389,390. Electronic Theory of Condensed Matter
Catalog Number: 5425,1600
Henry Ehrenreich 2411 (on leave spring term)

*Applied Physics 395,396. Topics in Materials Science
Catalog Number: 4012,5003
Michael J. Aziz 1337

*Applied Physics 397,398. Materials Science
Catalog Number: 4266,5010
Frans A. Spaepen 4991 (on leave fall term)