Prove the number theory conjecture

In summary, the number theory conjecture is a statement about the properties of numbers that has not been proven or disproven. Proving it would contribute to our understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts and could have practical applications. Scientists use various techniques and collaborate with others to attempt to prove the conjecture. The study of number theory and related conjectures dates back to ancient civilizations, with the formal concept introduced in the 19th century. Some famous unsolved number theory conjectures include the Riemann hypothesis, the Goldbach conjecture, and the twin prime conjecture.
  • #1
yeland404
23
0

Homework Statement



prove or disprove the following conjecture:

If n is a positive integar, then n^2 - n +41 is a prime number

Homework Equations



no, just prove or disprove

The Attempt at a Solution



I think one possible answer may be there is no factorization for this except itself and 1.
not like N^2-1 which can write as (n-1)(n+1)
 
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  • #2
Isn't there some value of n for which it's clearly not prime? Maybe n^2 - n +41 divisible by 41?
 
Last edited:
  • #3
If you think carefully plug in a value for which might be staring at you... and factor...
 

1. What is the number theory conjecture?

The number theory conjecture is a mathematical statement that has not been proven or disproven. It is often a statement about the properties of numbers, and it is usually posed as a question, such as "Are there infinitely many prime numbers?"

2. Why is it important to prove the number theory conjecture?

Proving the number theory conjecture would contribute to our understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts and potentially lead to new discoveries. It could also have practical applications in fields such as cryptography and computer science.

3. How do scientists attempt to prove the number theory conjecture?

Scientists use various mathematical techniques, such as induction, contradiction, and modular arithmetic, to attempt to prove the number theory conjecture. They also collaborate with other mathematicians and build upon existing research to develop new approaches.

4. How long has the number theory conjecture been a topic of study?

The study of number theory and related conjectures dates back to ancient civilizations, but the formal concept of a conjecture was introduced in the 19th century. The specific conjectures being studied today may have been proposed more recently, but building upon centuries of mathematical knowledge and techniques.

5. What are some famous unsolved number theory conjectures?

Some famous unsolved number theory conjectures include the Riemann hypothesis, the Goldbach conjecture, and the twin prime conjecture. These have been studied for centuries and continue to intrigue and challenge mathematicians today.

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