This course introduces the notion of universality, whereby a large zoo of seemingly disparate systems can be described by the same theory. It introduces a powerful and widely applicable concept known as renormalization group which explains where this universality comes from. It introduces some paradigmatic frameworks underpinning condensed matter physics, including band structure and the quasiparticle concept.
Universal Theories
Universal Theories
This course is part of The Physics of Emergence: Introduction to Condensed Matter Specialization
Instructor: Rahul Nandkishore
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
Recommended experience
13 hours to complete
3 weeks at 4 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Explain the concept of universality.
Describe the renormalization group and how it explains universality.
Explain metals and insulators
Details to know
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Add to your LinkedIn profile
Assessments
9 assignments
Taught in English
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This course is part of the The Physics of Emergence: Introduction to Condensed Matter Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 4 modules in this course
This module introduces the notion of universality and introduces the renormalization group.
What's included
11 videos1 reading2 assignments1 peer review3 discussion prompts
This module continues the presentation of the renormalization group and explains the emergence of universality.
What's included
10 videos2 assignments2 peer reviews5 discussion prompts
This module explores the basics of the Band Theory of Electrons.
What's included
9 videos2 assignments1 peer review4 discussion prompts
This module provides detailed discussion of metals and insulators.
What's included
8 videos3 assignments2 peer reviews4 discussion prompts
Instructor
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Physics and Astronomy
Caltech
University of Colorado Boulder
Erasmus University Rotterdam
Erasmus University Rotterdam
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