Summary

This book posits that graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms, represents a paradigm shift in condensed matter physics, necessitating new theoretical frameworks and experimental approaches. Novoselov highlights graphene's unique electronic and optical properties, which stem from its two-dimensional honeycomb lattice structure and the resulting Dirac cone band structure. The book aims to consolidate the foundational understanding of this novel material, bridging theoretical predictions with experimental observations and outlining its potential impact on future technologies.

Readers will gain an understanding of the fundamental physics governing graphene's behavior, including its relativistic-like charge carriers and exceptional conductivity. The text emphasizes how graphene defies conventional solid-state theories, requiring novel quantum mechanical treatments. It serves as a comprehensive introduction for researchers and students, providing insights into the experimental techniques used to isolate and characterize graphene, and outlining future research directions driven by its extraordinary characteristics.

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Key concepts

Dirac Cone — A conical dispersion relation in the electronic band structure of graphene, leading to massless, relativistic-like charge carriers.
Quantum Hall Effect — Observed in graphene at room temperature, demonstrating the quantization of electrical conductivity in a 2D electron system under a magnetic field.
Zero Band Gap — Graphene's electronic structure has a zero band gap at the Dirac points, distinguishing it from typical semiconductors.
Ballistic Transport — The unimpeded movement of charge carriers over relatively long distances in graphene due to its crystalline perfection.
Novel Electronic Properties — Graphene exhibits exceptional electron mobility, high thermal conductivity, and optical transparency, driven by its unique atomic structure.