Why is there a prize of $1 million for showing that there are. ?

  • Thread starter verdigris
  • Start date
In summary, there is a $1 million prize for showing that there are smooth solutions to the Navier-Stokes equations throughout time. However, this prize is not being offered for finding the actual solutions themselves, but rather for understanding the fundamental structure of all solutions and proving that no solution will blow up in finite time. This deeper understanding would have practical applications in fields such as aerodynamics. Additionally, professionals are already able to generate approximate solutions to the accuracy needed for practical purposes on a daily basis.
  • #1
verdigris
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Why is there a prize of $1 million for showing that there are smooth solutions to the Navier-Stokes equations throughout time.Why isn't the prize being offered for finding what the solutions actually are?
 
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  • #2
There are an infinity of solutions to N-S, many of which are well-known.

Infinity*$1million=more money that we'll ever get.

Besides, it is more important to understand the fundamental structure of all solutions, rather than the details of any particular solution.

To demonstrate that, for smooth boundary conditions&initial values, no solution will blow up in finite time, would deepen our understanding of the fundamental structure of N-S solutions.
 
  • #3
How would knowing the fundamental structure of all solutions be of practical use in,say,aerodynamics?
 
  • #4
If you don't attach any sort of value to mathematical insights in themselves, you might as well remain a caveman.

I refuse to answer that question.
 
  • #5
Another thing:
Finding approximate solutions to the accuracy needed for practical purposes, are generated every day by professionals already.
So, in this sense, to find solutions isn't "challenging" in the sense that professionals know how to get them.
 

1. Why is there a prize of $1 million for showing that there are?

The prize of $1 million is intended to incentivize and reward individuals who are able to demonstrate the existence of something that has not yet been proven or discovered. It encourages scientific exploration and innovation, as well as provides recognition and financial support for groundbreaking research.

2. Who is offering the $1 million prize for showing that there are?

The $1 million prize is typically offered by organizations or individuals who are interested in promoting scientific advancements and discoveries. These could include private foundations, government agencies, or wealthy individuals who have a passion for scientific progress.

3. What are the requirements for winning the $1 million prize for showing that there are?

The specific requirements for winning the $1 million prize may vary depending on the organization or individual offering it. Generally, there will be a set of criteria or guidelines that must be met in order to qualify for the prize. This could include providing evidence or proof of the existence of the subject, as well as meeting any other specific requirements set by the sponsor of the prize.

4. Has anyone ever won the $1 million prize for showing that there are?

There have been several instances where individuals or teams have won the $1 million prize for demonstrating the existence of something. For example, in 2004, a Russian mathematician named Grigori Perelman was awarded the $1 million Millennium Prize for solving the Poincaré conjecture, a major unsolved problem in mathematics. There have also been prizes awarded for demonstrating the existence of new species, energy sources, and medical breakthroughs.

5. How does the $1 million prize for showing that there are impact the scientific community?

The $1 million prize for showing that there are can have a significant impact on the scientific community. It can serve as a source of motivation for researchers to pursue ambitious and groundbreaking projects, as well as provide recognition and financial support for their work. It also brings attention to important scientific discoveries and can inspire others to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge and understanding. In some cases, the prize money may also be used to fund further research and advancements in the field.

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