From mathematics to phenomenological particle physics (examples in lattice vibrations and nucleon structure)

Contends that the rapid accumulation of empirical knowledge has led to an emphasis on phenomenology in theoretical physics. The author points to the variety of ways in which mathematical methods, concepts and results find applications in physics and illustrates this with examples from his own work: (i) vibrations of periodic crystal lattice in the harmonic approximation; and (ii) the internal structure of the nucleon and its manifestation in various types of high energy collision. (3 refs).