Properties of Materials and Solid State

What this page covers

The resources here sit in two broad groups. The first is mechanical properties: springs, Hooke's law, stress, strain, density and the Young modulus. The second is solid state physics: crystal structures, bonding, diffraction, semiconductors and superconductivity.

Where to start

If you are preparing for A-level Physics or GCSE Physics style work, begin with the mechanical side. The mind map Materials sets out Hooke's law, the spring constant and the Young modulus in one view. The mind map AS level physics young's modulus then gives the definition of tensile stress over tensile strain, with equations.

For university-level work, open Solid State Physics or CONCEPT MAP OF SOLID STATE OF PHYSICS. They organize structural and electrical properties of solids. Then try Part 2: Electrons in Solids, which compares insulators, semiconductors and metals by their energy gaps.

Using quizzes and maps together

1. Read a mind map slowly and cover the branches you think you know.
2. Take a quiz such as Youngs Modulus or Materials.
3. Note which questions you missed and go back to the matching branch.
4. Use a flashcard deck such as Stress, Strain and Young Modulus to fix the definitions and units.

The quiz on stress, strain and the Young modulus includes a spring tension question that asks you to reason about how length changes as the force rises and falls. It is a good test of whether the ideas have sunk in.

Where this unit fits

This unit belongs to the strand Matter and Thermal Physics in Physics. It links the everyday behavior of springs and wires to the structure of solids themselves.

Your next step

Pick one mind map, work through one quiz, and see which topic needs another look. Then make your own notes or flashcards to fill the gaps.