Condensed Matter Theory 2

3 EC

Semester 1, period 2

53542CMT3Y

Owner Master Physics and Astronomy (joint degree)
Coordinator dr. Irene Aguilera Bonet
Part of Master Physics and Astronomy, track Advanced Matter and Energy Physics, Master Physics and Astronomy, track Theoretical Physics, Master Mathematics, specialization Algebra and Geometry, year 1Master Mathematics, specialization Analysis and Dynamical Systems, year 1Master Mathematics, specialization Mathematical Physics, year 1Master Mathematics, specialization Stochastics , year 1Master Physics and Astronomy (joint degree), track General Physics and Astronomy, Master Mathematics, specialisation Discrete Mathematics and Quantum Information, year 1Double master Mathematics and Physics, Master Quantum Computer Science,

Course manual 2025/2026

Course content

Starting from the basic notions of statistical mechanics and quantum theory introduced in CMT1, students will be introduced to progressively more advanced aspects of the formalisms and models of modern condensed matter theory. The basic physical principles underlying emergent phenomena will be discussed in reference to (among others) interacting bosonic, fermionic, and spin systems; broken symmetry in Bose-Einstein condensates and superconductivity; and Fermi liquid theory. The universal appeal of constructing effective theories and using path integrals and functional field integration to analyse these models will be emphasized.

Study materials

Other

  • Lecture notes

Objectives

  • Students will be able to discuss classic results of modern statistical and condensed matter physics.
  • Students will learn to apply methods of condensed matter physics.
  • Students will learn to recognise concepts of condensed matter physics, and place them in context.

Teaching methods

  • Lecture
  • Self-study
  • Supervision/feedback meeting
  • Seminar

Learning activities

Activity

Hours

Deeltoets

2

Hoorcollege

24

Tentamen

3

Vragenuur

4

Werkcollege

12

Self study

39

Total

84

(3 EC x 28 uur)

Attendance

  • Some course components require compulsory attendance. If compulsory attendance applies, this will be indicated in the Course Catalogue which can be consulted via the UvA-website. The rationale for and implementation of this compulsory attendance may vary per course and, if applicable, is included in the Course Manual.

    • Assessment

    Item and weight Details

    Final grade

    30%

    Deeltoets

    70%

    Tentamen

    The midterm exam is optional. 

    Fraud and plagiarism

    The 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' applies to this course. This will be monitored carefully. Upon suspicion of fraud or plagiarism the Examinations Board of the programme will be informed. For the 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' see: www.student.uva.nl

    Course structure

    Weeknummer Onderwerpen Studiestof
    1    
    2    
    3    
    4    
    5    
    6    
    7    
    8    

    Additional information

    The detailed Course structure table will be shared in Canvas. 

    Contact information

    Coordinator

    • dr. Irene Aguilera Bonet