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Caltech Course Catalog / 2025-2026 Catalog / Courses 2025-26 / Imperfections in Crystals

MS/ME 161 - Imperfections in Crystals

MS/ME 161

Imperfections in Crystals

9 units (3-0-6)   |  third term
Prerequisites: graduate standing or MS 115.

The relation of lattice defects to the physical and mechanical properties of crystalline solids. Introduction to point imperfections and their relationships to transport properties in metallic, covalent, and ionic crystals. Kroeger-Vink notation. Introduction to dislocations: geometric, crystallographic, elastic, and energetic properties of dislocations. Dislocation reactions and interactions including formation of locks, stacking faults, and surface effects. Relations between collective dislocation behavior and mechanical properties of crystals. Introduction to computer simulations of dislocations. Grain boundaries. The structure and properties of interfaces in solids. Emphasis on materials science aspects of role of defects in electrical, morphological, optical, and mechanical properties of solids. Not offered 2025-26.

Instructor: Greer
Published Date: Aug. 28, 2025