Berry Phases in Electronic Structure Theory: Electric Polarization, Orbital Magnetization and Topological Insulators [Hardcover]

An introduction to the role of Berry phases in our modern understanding of the physics of electrons in solids.A pedagogical introduction to a set of mathematical ideas associated with Berry phases that have revolutionized understanding of key aspects of the behavior of electrons in solids. Including practical examples and exercises throughout to test understanding, this book covers electric polarization, orbital magnetization and topological insulators.A pedagogical introduction to a set of mathematical ideas associated with Berry phases that have revolutionized understanding of key aspects of the behavior of electrons in solids. Including practical examples and exercises throughout to test understanding, this book covers electric polarization, orbital magnetization and topological insulators.Over the past twenty-five years, mathematical concepts associated with geometric phases have come to occupy a central place in our modern understanding of the physics of electrons in solids. These 'Berry phases' describe the global phase acquired by a quantum state as the Hamiltonian is changed. Beginning at an elementary level, this book provides a pedagogical introduction to the important role of Berry phases and curvatures, and outlines their great influence upon many key properties of electrons in solids, including electric polarization, anomalous Hall conductivity, and the nature of the topological insulating state. It focuses on drawing connections between physical concepts and provides a solid framework for their integration, enabling researchers and students to explore and develop links to related fields. Computational examples and exercises throughout provide an added dimension to the book, giving readers the opportunity to explore the central concepts in a practical and engaging way.Preface; Acronyms; Introduction; 1. Invariance and quantization of charges and currents; 2. Review of electronic structure theory; 3. Berry phases and curvatures; 4. Electric polarization;lC(