Mathematics as the universal language of nature (Summary)

• Mathematics is not only the universal language, but also a powerful tool for understanding nature.
• The fundamental laws of physics are formulated in mathematical terms. It is remarkable how the same basic laws lead to the multitude of phenomena we observe in nature, including spectacular efects like phase transitions.
• The understanding of the basic laws of physics forms the foundation of all of our advances in technology.
• It is a central goal in Mathematical Physics to develop the mathematical tools required in order to understand the consequences of the fundamental physical laws, and to uncover the mechanism and principles behind observed and potentially observable phenomena.
• Examples of past successes include the stability of matter as we observe it in everyday life, from very small atomic scales to large astronomical objects like neutron stars.

Presenter: Robert Seiringer (IST Austria)