Solid State Chemistry

Written from the point of view of the chemist, rather than the physicist, "Solid State Chemistry" emphasizes the importance of careful synthesis to understanding the properties of a large number of transition metal oxides and sulfides. It discusses many widely used solid state materials, including high-temperature oxide superconductors, diamond films, catalysts, semiconductors, and magnetic materials. The introductory tutorial section familiarizes the reader with basic elements of crystallography; the electronic, magnetic, and optical properties of solids; and phase diagrams. The tutorials use physics and mathematics at levels that any senior chemistry student should be able to follow with little difficulty. The chapters that follow treat the synthesis of oxides and sulfides as both polycrystalline solids and single crystals. Compounds selected for discussion are classified according to structure type, which are illustrated by clear drawings. Throughout, the focus is on how synthesis is related to properties and how sensitive properties are to small levels of contaminants. The book uses a single extended molecular orbital model to correlate properties with synthesis and structure.
"Solid State Chemistry" is suitable for use as a text for a one-semester course in chemistry or materials science. Each chapter includes problems (some with answers) that test the student's ability to apply the principles discussed and encourage further reading in the literature. This book should be of interest to suitable as a text for a condensed course in chemistry or materials science.