Symmetry Principles in Solid State (Dover Books on Physics)

Book Details

• Author: LAX

• Publisher: Dover

• Language: English

• ISBN: 9780486420011

• Pages: 512

• Cover: Paperback (Illustrations)

• Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.2 x 1.1 inches

About The Book

"Group Theory and the Solid State" by LAX is a high-level, respected text aimed at both professionals and students involved in the theory of solids. Particularly valuable for its thorough application of group theory to solid-state and molecular physics, this book is ideal for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the symmetry properties in these fields.

The author, a distinguished professor at City College of New York, is well-known for his work in optics, lasers, and solid-state physics. He begins the book by distilling the most relevant ideas and theorems of group theory, especially at the group point level, and then moves into direct applications. The first three chapters provide a solid foundation in group theory, making the advanced topics that follow easier to understand.

The book includes examples on optical absorption selection rules, spin-orbit coupling, crystal field theory, and projection techniques. It also covers short-cut methods for solving molecular vibration problems, determining crystal tensor forms, and exploring the translational properties of crystals, including Bravais lattices and space groups.

A unique feature of this volume is its use of subgroup techniques and the influence of time reversal on selection rules. The text also incorporates shell theorems and invariance techniques to construct tensor forms, offering a novel perspective on crystal symmetry. It further delves into broken symmetry and explores the relationship between the symmetry of valence and molecular orbitals and the symmetry of electron molecular wave functions.

To aid comprehension, the book includes over 200 carefully selected problems, providing readers with ample opportunity to test and reinforce their understanding of the material.

This volume is a must-have for those serious about solid-state physics and group theory, providing a detailed and insightful approach to the topics of symmetry, electron dynamics, and many other critical areas in physics.