Mathematical Conversations
From the quantum Hall effect to integral lattices and braided tensor categories
Starting with a few remarks on hurricanes, I will sketch some basic facts about the physics of the Quantum Hall Effect. Assuming that the longitudinal conductance of a two-dimensional electron gas in a uniform magnetic field vanishes, I will explain why its Hall conductance must be a rational multiple of a constant of Nature, namely \(e^{2}/h\), and how this is related to the theory of odd integral lattices and of certain braided tensor categories.
About Mathematical Conversations: We meet in Harry's Bar at 6pm, where free drinks are provided. After 20 minutes, we move to the Dilworth room, where the speaker gives a 20-minute talk, followed by 15 minutes of discussion with the audience. After that we return to the bar for further discussions.