Computational Methods In Solid State Physics

Computational Methods in Solid State Physics

The combination of theoretical physics methods, numerical mathematics and computers has given rise to a new field of physics known as "computational physics." The purpose of this monograph is to present the various methods of computational physics, in particular the methods of band theory. The first chapter of the book provides an introduction to the field and presents the theoretical foundations of band theory. In the second and third chapters the authors describe both traditional and more modern methods of band theory and include practical recommendations for their use. Methods which are discussed include APW (augmented plane wave), Green's function method, LMTO (linear method of MT- orbitals), LKKR (linear Korringer, Kohn and Rostocker method), LAPW (linear augmented plane wave), ASW (augmented spherical waves), and LASO (linear method of augmented Slater orbitals). Great attention is paid to the practical aspects of these theories and the book is structured in such a way as to enable the reader to use any method in practice without reference to other sources.

Computational Methods for Large Molecules and Localized States in Solids

During the past few years, there has been dramatic progress in theoretical and computational studies of large molecules and local ized states in solids. Various semi-empirical and first-principles methods well known in quantum chemistry have been applied with considerable success to ever larger and more complex molecules, including some of biological importance, as well as to selected solid state problems involving localized electronic states. In creasingly, solid state physicists are adopting a molecular point of view in attempting to understand the nature of electronic states associated with (a) isolated structural and chemical defects in solids; (b) surfaces and interfaces; and (c) bulk disordered solids, most notably amorphous semiconductors. Moreover, many concepts and methods already widely used in solid state physics are being adapted to molecular problems. These adaptations include pseudopotentials, statistical exchange approxi mations, muffin-tin model potentials, and multiple scattering and cellular methods. In addition, many new approaches are being de vised to deal with progressively more complex molecular and local ized electronic state problems.

Quantum Chemistry, Solid-state Physics, and Computational Methods