condensedmatter

Condensed matter physics, also called condensed matter science, is the branch of physics that studies the physical properties of matter in condensed phases, particularly solids and liquids. It seeks to understand how large ensembles of interacting constituents—atoms, ions, electrons, and molecules—give rise to emergent behaviors that are not evident in isolated particles. Common subjects include crystal structure, phase transitions, electronic transport, optical response, and magnetism.

Researchers in condensed matter explore a wide range of phenomena, from semiconductors and metals to soft matter such as polymers, colloids, and liquid crystals. Major subfields include solid-state physics, which treats crystals and electronic band structure; soft condensed matter; and quantum or mesoscopic condensed matter, which focuses on nanoscale systems, superconductivity, magnetism, and topological phases.

Investigation combines experimental tools—X-ray and neutron scattering, photoemission spectroscopy, electron microscopy, scanning probe techniques, and transport measurements—with theoretical approaches such as quantum many-body theory, density functional theory, and effective models. Computational methods complement experiments to predict material properties and guide discovery.

Since the mid-20th century, condensed matter physics has driven technological advances, including semiconductors, lasers, magnetic storage, and energy materials. The field continues to pursue quantum materials and topological states, with implications for computing, sensing, and energy.

Condensed matter physics is highly interdisciplinary, linking physics with chemistry, materials science, and engineering. Conferences, journals, and shared facilities support an international community that aims to discover novel states of matter and translate them into functional technologies.