Localized spins in solids

Diplome(s)
Lieu
ENS-PSL
Printemps- Eté
Niveau Master 2 3 ECTS - En anglais
Cours en option pour le parcours de Matière Condensée / Physique Quantique M2
Enseignant(s) Gabriel HETET ( ENS-PSL ) Emmanuel GINER ( Sorbonne Université )
Contact - Secrétariat de l’enseignement

The objective of this course is to cover the background required to understand one major system in future quantumbased technologies in the solid state, namely localized spins of atoms embedded in a solid state matrix.

It will also provide key notions on central theories in solid state physics (theory of group representations, defect formation, crystal field theory, spin-relaxation in crystals). These concepts will be illustrated by experimental tools and by a presentation of the currently employed material platforms.

Syllabus

I- Theory of group representations (CM : 8h, TD : 4h)

Group representation with application to quantum mechanics for point defects in crystals.

II- Electronic structure / spin relaxation in solids (CM : 8h, TD : 8h)

  • Wigner-Eckart theorem for rotation groups : spin Hamiltonian in crystals. 
  • Orbital momentum quenching of spin defects 
  •  Spin-orbit interactions in crystals (g-tensor), zero-field splitting … 
  • “Spin-temperature” : phonon relaxation.

Applications of the course to studies of novel defects : NV/SiV/GeV centers in 
diamonds, rare earth doped crystals…

Evaluation

Examen écrit L361 9am-12.30pm

prerequisites

Quantum mechanics M1 level.