Metal insulator transition and percolation

In summary, the conversation revolved around the topic of the metal insulator transition using percolation theory. A student was looking for resources on this topic and discovered that it involves doping in semi-conductors to turn them into materials with similar properties to metals. The application of this theory is in low temperature environments to minimize or avoid intrinsic charge carriers. The student also mentioned finding information in the book "Metal Insulator Transition" by Nevill Mott and relating it to hopping conductivity.
  • #1
JorisL
492
189
Hello,

For the past 2 days I've been looking for a resource discussing the metal insulator transition using percolation theory. (The next part treats the Anderson and Mott models)
I'm studying for a course of solid state physics where this is mentioned/summarized.
The problem is that the hand-outs are minimal, at best (ancient slides for an overhead projector that were scanned)

I've found some sources briefly mentioning it but without any reference.

I think I figured out it is about doping in semi-conductors which can turn the semi-conductor in a material with properties similar to metals. The application seems to allude to a low temperature environment as to minimize/avoid intrinsic charge carriers to exist.

Does anybody know of resources talking about this?
Or does anybody think the above reasoning makes sense?

Joris
 
  • #3
A little follow up;

Most of what I needed so far could be found in "Metal Insulator Transition" by Nevill Mott.
Percolation theory got somewhat explained when I was reading about (variable range) hopping conductivity in this resource.
 

1. What is the metal insulator transition?

The metal insulator transition is a phenomenon in which a material changes from being a metal (a material that conducts electricity well) to an insulator (a material that does not conduct electricity). This transition can occur due to changes in temperature, pressure, or other external factors.

2. What is percolation in relation to the metal insulator transition?

Percolation refers to the behavior of materials that are composed of particles or clusters that are randomly distributed. In the context of the metal insulator transition, percolation theory is used to describe the critical point at which a material transitions from being an insulator to a conductor as the concentration of conducting particles increases.

3. What factors influence the metal insulator transition?

The metal insulator transition can be influenced by various factors, such as temperature, pressure, and disorder in the material's structure. Additionally, the concentration and distribution of conducting particles can also play a significant role in determining the behavior of the material.

4. How is the metal insulator transition studied?

The metal insulator transition can be studied through various experimental techniques, such as electrical conductivity measurements, optical spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Theoretical models, such as percolation theory and mean field theory, are also used to analyze and understand the behavior of materials undergoing this transition.

5. What are the applications of the metal insulator transition and percolation?

The metal insulator transition and percolation have applications in various fields, such as electronics, energy storage, and materials science. Understanding and controlling these phenomena can lead to the development of new materials with unique properties, such as high conductivity or tunable insulating behavior, which can be useful in various technological applications.

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