Symmetry, structure, and tensor properties of materials

Lectures: Two sessions / week, 1.5 hours / lecture

This course covers the derivation of symmetry theory; lattices, point groups, space groups, and their properties; use of symmetry in tensor representation of crystal properties, including anisotropy and representation surfaces; and applications to piezoelectricity and elasticity.

The only prerequisites for this course are familiarity with linear algebra and matrix mathematics. Course concepts are developed from first principles using basic geometry.

There is no required textbook. Students are expected to read handouts as listed in the readings section.

A student's grade is based entirely upon an equal weighting of the three quizzes.

Students are encouraged to turn in their homework assignments for correction and feedback, but the assignments do not contribute to the course grade.

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