This course will explore the physics of metals, insulators, and semiconductors, with particular attention to structure, energy bands, and electronic properties. After developing the appropriate background, we will examine some simple semiconductor devices. Independent reading and discussion. Format: independent study. Evaluation will be based on weekly problem sets and presentations, and a final exam, all of which have a substantial quantitative component. Prerequisites: Physics 301 and permission of the instructor. Enrollment limit: 4 (expected: 2). This is a quantitative/formal reasoning course.