In [this][1] MO question it is stated that there is a relation between some aspects of condensed matter physics (namely the fractional quantum Hall effect) and the algebraic geometry of Hilbert schemes. Having made a quick google search without immediate results, I'm curious to know: > 1. How does this interaction between the two topics happen? ---- Let's have a more general look. I'm aware of the relation between Hilbert schemes -and also other kinds of moduli spaces of sheaves- and *instantons*. Anyway, here I would be interested to know of other examples more in the vein of the MO question linked above. > 2. Do moduli spaces in the sense of algebraic geometry -of which Hilbert schemes are a special case- have any link with physics (**except** string theory, high energy and elementary particle physics)? ------ Last but not least: > 3. What about moduli spaces and applied mathematics? [1]: http://mathoverflow.net/questions/231097/reference-request-for-hilbert-schemes?noredirect=1#comment571828_231097