Quantum chaos, Random Matrix theory, and the Riemann ζ-function

Abstract

We review some connections between quantum chaos and the theory of the Riemann zeta function and the primes. Specifically, we give an overview of the similarities between the semiclassical trace formula that connects quantum energy levels and classical periodic orbits in chaotic systems and an analogous formula that connects the Riemann zeros and the primes. We also review the role played by Random Matrix Theory in both quantum chaos and the theory of the zeta function. The parallels we review are conjectural and still far from being understood, but the ideas have led to substantial progress in both areas. © 2013 Springer Basel.