The Physics of Semiconductors

Modern fabrication techniques have made it possible to produce semiconductor devices whose dimensions are so small that quantum mechanical effects dominate their behavior. This book describes the key elements of quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and solid-state physics that are necessary in understanding these modern semiconductor devices. The author begins with a review of elementary quantum mechanics, and then describes more advanced topics, such as multiple quantum wells. He then disusses equilibrium and nonequilibrium statistical mechanics. Following this introduction, he provides a thorough treatment of solid-state physics, covering electron motion in periodic potentials, electron-phonon interaction, and recombination processes. The final four chapters deal exclusively with real devices, such as semiconductor lasers, photodiodes, flat panel displays, and MOSFETs. The book contains many homework exercises and is suitable as a textbook for electrical engineering, materials science, or physics students taking courses in solid-state device physics. It will also be a valuable reference for practicing engineers in optoelectronics and related areas.

Contents

1. Basic concepts in quantum mechanics
2. One dimensional potential problems
3. Three dimensional potential problems
4. Approximation methods in quantum mechanics
5. Equilibrium statistical mechanics
6. Nonequilibrium statistical mechanics
7. Multielectron systems and crystalline symmetries
8. Motion of electrons in a periodic potential
9. Phonons and the electron-phonon interaction
10. Generation and recombination processes in semiconductors
11. Junctions
12. Semiconductor photonic detectors
13. Optoelectronic emitters
14. Field effect devices.