Sample interview questions: Can you explain the concept of phase transitions in condensed matter physics?
Sample answer:
Phase Transitions in Condensed Matter Physics
Phase transitions are transformations between distinct states of matter, such as solid, liquid, and gas. They are driven by changes in temperature, pressure, or other external parameters.
Types of Phase Transitions
- First-order: Characterized by abrupt changes in properties, such as density, volume, and entropy. Involve the formation of a new phase with a distinct crystal structure.
- Second-order: Continuous transitions without abrupt changes in properties. Display critical behavior, where thermodynamic properties diverge at a critical temperature, pressure, or other parameter.
Mechanisms of Phase Transitions
- Melting: Transition from solid to liquid, driven by an increase in temperature or pressure.
- Freezing: Transition from liquid to solid, driven by a decrease in temperature or pressure.
- Evaporation: Transition from liquid to gas, driven by an increase in temperature or pressure.
- Condensation: Transition from gas to liquid, driven by a decrease in temperature or pressure.
Critical Phenomena
At critical points, where two or more phases coexist, critical phenomena emerge:
- Critical exponents:… Read full answer
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