Mathematics Colloquium

Thursday, March 28, 1996, 4:00pm

102 Bradley Hall

Professor Craig A. Tracy

University of California, Davis

speaks on

Random Matrices and Completely Integrable Systems

Abstract. Random matrices and in particular eigenvalues of random matrices have a long history both in physics and mathematics beginning with the work of Wigner, Dyson, Mehta and others. The widespread applications of the various distribution functions associated with random matrices are due to their apparent universality. These distribution functions are in turn tau-functions associated to completely integrable systems of partial (and ordinary) differential equations. This somewhat surprising connection allows a degree of analysis of these distribution functions that was not previously possible.

This talk will survey these recent developments concentrating on some special cases that illuminate the general theory.

Tea. High tea will be served at 3:30pm in the Lounge.
Emmy's. Certain refreshments will be available at the Emmy's after the talk.
Host. Many old-timers volunteered to be hosts. Anybody who is interested in having dinner with the speaker should contact our social chair Reese at 646-2960.