Chris Lutsko

Something About Statistical Mechanics

In the first half of this talk, I will explain how probabilistic ideas gave rise to the study of mathematical statistical mechanics. In the second half I will explain how, in a joint work with Bálint Tóth, we used these probabilistic arguments to motivate a proof concerning a model for the diffusion of electrons in metals. With some luck, those who don't know anything about stat mech will be introduced to a fascinating subject. And those already familiar will get to see a new proof.