Unlike existing texts, this book blends for the first time three topics in physics - symmetry, condensed matter physics and computational methods - into one pedagogical textbook. It includes new concepts in mathematical crystallography; experimental methods capitalizing on symmetry aspects; non-conventional applications such as Fourier crystallography, color groups, quasicrystals and incommensurate systems; as well as concepts and techniques behind the Landau theory of phase transitions. Adopting a computational approach to the application of group theoretical techniques to solving symmetry related problems, it dramatically alleviates the need for intensive calculations usually found in the presentation of symmetry. Writing computer programs helps the student achieve a firm understanding of the underlying concepts, and sample programs, based on Mathematica, are presented throughout the book. Containing over 150 exercises, this textbook is ideal for graduate students in condensed matter physics, materials science, and chemistry. Solutions and computer programs are available online at www.cambridge.org/9780521828451.

� propos des auteurs

Michael EL-Batanouny is a professor in the Department of Physics at Boston University. His research area is experimental surface physics, and he has written numerous papers on solid state physics and surface physics.

Frederick Wooten (1928–2004) was Professor of Physics and Chair of the Department of Applied Science at the University of California, Davis. He is the author of Optical Properties of Solids, and numerous articles in the field of solid state physics, more recently in the area of materials science.

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