2009 Probability Seminar - 02

  • Date: 01/21/2009
Lecturer(s):
Ben Graham (UBC)
Location: 

University of British Columbia

Topic: 

Influence and Statistical Mechanics

Description: 

Statistical mechanics is the branch of physics that seeks to explain
the properties of matter that emerge from microscopic scale
interactions. Probabilistic models such as percolation help describe
various physical phenomena. The models are generally not exactly
solvable; simple local interactions produce complex long range
behaviour.
The technology of influence provides a way to study these processes. We
will look at applications of influence to percolation, directed and
undirected first passage percolation, the Ising model, and the
random-cluster model. Joint work with Geoffrey Grimmett.

Schedule: 

3:00pm-4:00pm, WMAX 216

Sponsor: 

pims