Optical Effects in Solids

An overview of the optical effects in solids, addressing the physics of various materials and their response to electromagnetic radiation. The discussion includes metals, semiconductors, superconductors, and insulators. The book begins by introducing the dielectric function into Maxwell's macroscopic equations and finding their plane-wave solution. The physics governing the dielectric function of various materials is then covered, both classically and using basic quantum mechanics. Advanced topics covered include interacting electrons, the anomalous skin effect, anisotropy, magneto-optics, and inhomogeneous materials. Each subject begins with a connection to the basic physics of the particular solid, after which the measurable optical quantities are derived. It allows the reader to connect measurements (reflectance, optical conductivity and dielectric function) with the underlying physics of solids. Methods of analysing experimental data are addressed, making this an ideal resource for students and researchers interested in solid state physics, optics, and materials science. Cover......Page 1 Front Matter ......Page 3 Optical Effects in Solids......Page 5 Copyright ......Page 6 Dedication ......Page 7 Contents ......Page 9 Preface......Page 13 1 Introduction......Page 15 2 Maxwell’s Equations and PlaneWaves in Matter......Page 20 3 The Complex Dielectric Function and Refractive Index......Page 31 4 Classical Theories for the Dielectric Function......Page 44 5 Phonons......Page 76 6 A Look at Real Solids......Page 95 7 Transmission and Reflection......Page 110 8 Free-ElectronMetals......Page 129 9 Optical Excitations: Quantum Mechanics......Page 151 10 Kramers–Kronig Relations and SumRules......Page 166 11 Superconductors......Page 189 12 Semiconductors and Insulators......Page 221 13 Strongly Interacting Solids......Page 255 14 Nonlocal Effects......Page 277 15 Anisotropic Crystals......Page 290 16 Magneto-Optics......Page 318 17 Inhomogeneous Materials......Page 347 Appendix A. Notes about Units......Page 361 Appendix B. Maxwell’s Equations in SI......Page 364 Appendix C. Partial Derivatives and Vector Operators Acting on PlaneWaves......Page 366 Appendix D. TheWave Equation......Page 367 Appendix E. Reflection and Transmission at Oblique Incidence......Page 368 Appendix F. A Field Guide to Optical “Constants”......Page 379 Appendix G. Software......Page 386 References ......Page 387 Index......Page 411 An overview of the optical effects in solids, this book addresses the physics of materials and their response to electromagnatic radiation--back cover