MATH 605
Topic in Probability:
Probability Models From Statistical Mechanics
Fall 2009
Prof. Ken Alexander
Office: KAP 424E, (213) 740-3797 (KAP 424E is
inside a suite of offices, SW corner of the building. If the
suite door is locked, knock somewhat loudly.)
Email:
alexandr@usc.edu Web
Page: http://www-rcf.usc.edu/~alexandr/
Office hours: (Tentative) Monday 11-12, 2-3;
Wednesday
11-12; or by
appointment.
Prerequisite: Math 505b
or 507b. Math 507a is sufficient but 507b is preferable.
Organizational meeting:
Monday August 24, 3:00 pm in KAP 427 (Conference room)
References (not required):
G. R. Grimmett, Percolation,
2nd edition
G. Giacomin, Random Polymer Models
B. Bollabas and O. Riordan, Percolation
Grading: This is a "topics" course. No homework to
turn in, or exams. You will be asked to asked to present 1-2
lectures of course material.
Auditing: If you want to just sit in on the class, you
must register for an audit.
Material to be covered: Independent percolation;
dependent percolation and its connection to Ising and Potts models;
polymer pinning models and the effect of disorder on phase transitions.