Book excerpt: Written by academics with more than 30 years experience teaching physics and material science, this book will act as a one-stop reference on functional materials. Offering a complete coverage of functional materials, this unique book deals with all three states of the material, providing an insightful overview of this subject not before seen in other texts. Includes solved examples, a number of exercises and answers to the exercises. Aims to promote understanding of the subject as a basis for higher studies. The use of mathematically complicated quantum mechanical equations will be minimized to aid understanding. For Instructors & Students: Visit Wiley’s Higher Education Site for: Supplements Online Resources Technology Solutions Instructors may request an evaluation copy for this title.