Quantum Physics of Semiconductor Materials and Devices

”Quantum Phenomena do not occur in a Hilbert space. They occur in a laboratory”. - Asher PeresSemiconductor physics is a laboratory to learn and discover the concepts of quantum mechanics and thermodynamics, condensed matter physics, and materials science, and the payoffs are almost immediate in the form of useful semiconductor devices. Debdeep Jena has had the opportunity to work on both sides of the fence - on the fundamental materials science and quantum physics of semiconductors, and in their applications in semiconductor electronic and photonic devices. In Quantum Physics ofSemiconductors and Nanostructures, Jena uses this experience to make each topic as tangible and accessible as possible to students at all levels.Consider the simplest physical processes that occur in semiconductors: electron or hole transport in bands and over barriers, collision of electrons with the atoms in the crystal, or when electrons and holes annihilate each other to produce a photon. The correct explanation of these processes require a quantum mechanical treatment. Any shortcuts lead to misconceptions that can take years to dispel, and sometimes become roadblocks towards a deeper understanding and appreciation of the richnessof the subject. A typical introductory course on semiconductor physics would then require prerequisites of quantum mechanics, statistical physics and thermodynamics, materials science, and electromagnetism. Rarely would a student have all this background when (s)he takes a course of this nature inmost universities. Jena's work fills in these gaps and gives students the background and deeper understanding of the quantum physics of semiconductors and nanostructures.

Engaging, attractively presented, and very clear. This book truly fills a gap.

Debdeep Jena is a Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering at Cornell University. His research and teaching interests are in the quantum physics, technology, and device applications of semiconductor and superconductor heterostructures such as III-V nitrides and oxides, and 2-dimensional crystals. He leads a research group that combines experiments and theory to investigate charge, heat, and spin transport in highlycrystalline solids, and uses them to explore fundamental limits of electronic, photonic, and quantum devices. The research of this group has been published in approximately 300 papers, generated several patents, and recognized by international awards.