Condensed Matter Physics

Condensed matter physics is a fast developing and lively field. Many new ideas and their numerous applications in technology have been developed or made in recent years. To name a few: semiconductors to be useful in optical region, micro system technology (MST), quantum confined systems, including nanotubes, high Tc superconductors, polymers, quantum Hall effect, quasi-crystals, amorphous silicon etc. In the last three decades, the activity in this area has rapidly gained an immense importance and has outstripped nearly every other area of activity which is evident from the rising volume of publications in this area not matched by any other area. This fast developing field necessitates a periodic review of current status and trends. The present volume is a definite step towards achieving this goal.