Can You Solve These Prime Number Proofs?

In summary, the conversation is about two math problems that the speaker needs help with. The first problem involves proving that d is prime if (2^d - 1) is prime. The second problem involves proving a congruence statement. The expert summarizer advises the speaker to show their attempts at the problem before receiving help. The expert also provides a potential solution for the first problem by using an indirect method to prove that d cannot be even in order for (2^d - 1) to be prime.
  • #1
JdotAckdot
4
0
Just a couple questions that I'd appreciate any help on.

1. if [(2^d) - 1] is prime, prove that d is prime as well.

2. Prove that (p-1)C(k) is congruent to (-1)^k mod p.

I've started them both but ended up getting stuck.
Any ideas?

Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
1. These look like textbook questions and so should go into the appropriate section of the Science Education Zone.

2. To get help, you must first show what you've tried and where you're stuck.
 
  • #3
JdotAckdot said:
I've started them both but ended up getting stuck.
Any ideas?

Yes, show us how you started and where you got stuck. The responses by CarlB and AKG have been "soft deleted" and will be restored once you have shown an attempt at the problem.
 
  • #4
first Q is simple

if d is even .2^d is 2^2n .even no: are {expressed in this form } ie 4^n if n is prime i.e. n>or=2 4^n is > or = 16. 4^n -1 is never a prime no. { eg 16-1=15}
so n cannot be even.thus we can prove by indirect method.
 

1. What is the purpose of a prime proof?

A prime proof is a mathematical proof that demonstrates that a particular number is a prime number, meaning it can only be divided by itself and 1. Prime proofs are important for verifying the accuracy of mathematical calculations and for solving complex problems in number theory.

2. How do you know if a number is prime or not?

To determine if a number is prime, you can use a variety of methods including trial division, sieving, or using a primality test algorithm. However, the most accurate and widely accepted method is to use a prime proof, which provides a mathematical proof that the number is prime.

3. Can any number be proven to be prime?

No, not all numbers can be proven to be prime. In fact, there are infinitely many numbers that are suspected to be prime, but have not yet been proven to be prime. This is known as the prime gap problem and is one of the most challenging problems in mathematics.

4. What are the implications of a successful prime proof?

A successful prime proof provides strong evidence that a number is prime and can be used to verify the accuracy of mathematical calculations. This is especially important in cryptography, where the security of algorithms relies on the difficulty of factoring large prime numbers. A successful prime proof also contributes to our understanding of number theory and can potentially lead to new discoveries and advancements in mathematics.

5. Are there any current challenges in prime proof research?

Yes, there are several ongoing challenges in prime proof research. One major challenge is finding efficient and reliable methods for proving the primality of extremely large numbers. Another challenge is identifying patterns and characteristics of prime numbers to aid in the development of new prime proof techniques. Additionally, there is ongoing research on improving the accuracy and efficiency of existing prime proof methods.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
890
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
30
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
740
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
Back
Top