The Physics of Emergence: Introduction to Condensed Matter Specialization
The motion of atoms and particles follows well-understood physical laws, yet large interacting systems can produce unexpected “emergent” phenomena not evident at the individual level. Condensed matter physics studies these behaviors.
As the largest field in modern physics, it underpins both our understanding of the natural world and many technologies. This specialization introduces its core concepts, offering practical tools to analyze complex systems without requiring extensive prior physics knowledge.
Learners apply these concepts to phenomena like magnetism and superconductivity, and explore how they extend to other collective behaviors beyond physics.
In this specialization, you will learn how to:
- Identify phases of matter using notions of symmetry, topology and renormalization.
- Apply ideas from condensed matter physics to understand complex phenomena in the natural world.
- Explain key open frontiers for condensed matter physics.
- Explain key open frontiers for condensed matter physics.
Courses
- Phases of Matter: Solid, Liquid, Gas and Beyond
- Universal Theories
- Modern Topics in Condensed Matter Physics