QCD and random matrices

Quantum chromodynamics (QCD), which describes the strong interactions, is a very complicated theory. However, QCD can also be viewed as a complex syst em which can be analyzed by statistical methods. Here, we review some of th e applications of random matrix theory in QCD. We discuss exact results whi ch have been tasted in lattice simulations, the analog of the Thouless ener gy in QCD, and schematic models for QCD at nonzero temperature and density. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.