Introduction
Solids, liquids, and gases are the three states of matter. In a brief, solid state physics is concerned with solid matter. The study of the microscopic characteristics of the dense assemblage of electrons generated by putting atoms very close together in a solid is informally described as solid state physics. In other words, it is the study of solids utilising a mix of experimental methods derived from crystallography, metallurgy, and engineering, as well as theoretical approaches derived from quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetic. One of the goals of Solid State Physics is to figure out how solids’ macroscopic properties are derived from their microscopic, atomic-scale properties. As a result, Solid State Physics serves as the theoretical foundation for Materials Science. It also has immediate technological implications. Solid State Physics is a big and comprehensive sub-area of physics. In fact, it is the largest branch of Materials Science.
Application of Solid-State Physics
The concepts of solid-state physics are rigorously applied everywhere around us. Among the most important are:
- Electronic devices such as mobiles and computers
- Optical devices such as lasers, fiber optics, etc
- Magnet based devices such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and vibrating devices
- Silicon-based logic and memory bits
To look at it another way, solid state physics underlies the entire notion of modern technology. Even everyday objects like a building’s wiring, a windowpane, and the magnet in a refrigerator door are all based on solid-state physics concepts.
How to become a Solid-state physicist
To start the career path to become one, you need to first pass intermediate in the science stream. A bachelor’s degree in physics or related subject is necessary to begin with. To specialize in Solid-state physics, you then need to go ahead and pursue a master’s or doctorate degree in solid-state physics.
For details on institutes offering solid-state physics as a major, visit
Skills and knowledge required
You’ll need:
- Maths and physics expertise
- Knowledge of engineering science and technology
- Analytical thinking skills
- Problem solving skills
- The ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- Excellent verbal communication skills
- To have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications