Imaging Phonons : Acoustic Wave Propagation in Solids

Using many original and striking illustrations, this text illuminates the basic theory and observations of vibrational-wave propagation in crystalline solids. Phonons are elementary vibrational quanta, and new imaging techniques provide insights into the processes of phonon focusing, lattice dynamics, ultrasound propagation, phonon scattering from interfaces, superlattices, defects and electrons.

Drop a pebble in a pond and the results are quite predictable: circular waves flow from the point of impact. Hit a point on a crystalline solid, however, and the expanding waves are highly non-spherical: the elasticity of a crystal is anisotropic. This book provides a fresh look at the vibrational properties of crystalline solids, elucidated by new imaging techniques. From the megahertz vibrations of ultrasound to the near-terahertz vibrations associated with heat, the underlying elastic anisotropy of the crystal asserts itself. Phonons are elementary vibrations that affect many properties of solids - thermal, electrical and magnetic. This text covers the basic theory and experimental observations of phonon propagation in solids. Phonon imaging techniques provide physical insights into such topics as phonon focusing, lattice dynamics and ultrasound propagation. Scattering of phonons from interfaces, superlattices, defects and electrons are treated in detail. The book includes many striking and original illustrations.