Parameterization Schemes in Solid State Physics

Abstract

The physical significance of parameterization schemes and their role in developing an understanding of complex systems is discussed, using examples taken from solid state physics. In particular, the importance of determining the necessary and sufficient set of hypotheses which defines a parameterization scheme is emphasized. A classification of parameterization schemes is developed in order to simplify this problem, and some general principles concerning the derivation and use of such schemes are formulated.