Random matrices, Virasoro algebras, and noncommutative KP. (Q1974850)

It is known that probability distributions of finite random matrix ensembles are usually given by explicit matrix integrals; whereas probability measures for infinite random matrix ensembles are given by certain kernels. The paper deals with the second case which is connected with the KdV equation. The authors suggest that studying connections between random matrices and integrable Hamiltonian systems should lead to a new and unifying approach to the theory of random matrices.