Local moment physics in heavy electron systems

TL;DR

This paper provides an introductory overview of local moment physics in heavy electron systems, covering moment formation, the Kondo effect, heavy electron fluid development, and quantum criticality, with exercises for clarity.

Contribution

It offers an accessible, lecture-based introduction to key concepts and open problems in heavy electron physics, suitable for newcomers.

Findings

Understanding of moment formation and Kondo effect

Development of coherent heavy electron fluid

Open problems in quantum criticality

Abstract

This set of four lectures was originally given at the VI Training Course in the Physics of Correlated Electron systems and High-Tc Superconductors, at Vietri Sur Mare, Italy (Oct 2001). The lectures are at an introductory level with exercises. The course describes the physics of moment formation, the Kondo effect and the development of a coherent heavy electron fluid in the dense Kondo lattice. The last lecture discusses the open problem of quantum criticality in heavy electron systems.