Mesoscopic Physics(<Feature Articles>World of Physics General : For the Memory of 90 Years Life of Professor IMAI Isao)

Abstract

Fluid mechanics, which connects Newton's law of mechanics and field theory, or statistical mechanics, is one of the best approaches to interdisciplinary fields of physics in general. In highly specialized and advanced present-day physics, "granular materials, " which interlace microscopic and macroscopic worlds, cast difficult problems. Challenges to mesoscopic systems, their backgrounds, meaning in physics, industrial applications, and prediction of natural disasters are discussed.