Berry curvature, semiclassical electron dynamics, and topological materials: Lecture notes for Introduction to Solid State Physics

TL;DR

This lecture note provides an accessible introduction to Berry curvature, semiclassical electron dynamics, and topological materials, serving as an educational supplement for graduate students in solid state physics.

Contribution

It offers a comprehensive, graduate-level overview of complex concepts in topological materials tailored for educational purposes.

Findings

Clarifies the role of Berry curvature in electron dynamics

Explains the significance of topological invariants in materials

Provides pedagogical insights into semiclassical approaches

Abstract

Lecture notes used in a graduate-level Introduction to Solid State Physics course at Cornell University, to serve as a supplement to textbooks at the level of Ashcroft & Mermin.