[Theoretical computer science] Regular Turing Machine undecidable proof

In summary, the conversation discusses the proof of Spiser's book on the introduction to the theory of computation. The conversation mentions using a TM S to decide ATM, which works by constructing a TM M2 and running R on input M2. The conversation also mentions considering different types of inputs and the behavior of R when M rejects. The overall goal of the proof is to show the relationship between regular languages and the acceptance of Turing machines.
  • #1
blob84
25
0
Hello the proof of the Spiser's book (introduction to theory of computation):
PROOF
We let R be a TM that decides REGULARTM and construct TM S to
decide ATM. Then S works in the following manner.
S = "On input (M, w), where M is a TM and w is a string:
1. Construct the following TM M2 .
M2 = "On input x:
1. If x has the form o^i 1^i , accept.
2. If x does not have this form, run M on input w and
accept if M accepts w."
2. R on input (M2 ).
3. Run R if accepts, accept; if R rejects, reject."
I don't understand how it works.
If x has that form accept and R will reject because 0^i1^i is not regular.
What happens when M rejects?
 
Technology news on Phys.org
  • #2
Could you be a little more clear on what this is trying to prove?
 

What is a Regular Turing Machine?

A Regular Turing Machine is a mathematical model of a computer that can simulate any algorithm. It consists of a tape, a read/write head, and a finite set of states. The machine reads and writes symbols on the tape according to a set of rules, allowing it to perform computations.

What does it mean for a problem to be undecidable?

A problem is undecidable if there is no algorithm that can always determine the correct answer for all possible inputs. In other words, there is no way to design a computer program that can solve the problem for all cases.

What is the proof for the undecidability of the Regular Turing Machine?

The proof for the undecidability of the Regular Turing Machine is known as the Halting Problem. It states that there is no algorithm that can determine whether a given program will eventually halt or run forever. This proof was first demonstrated by Alan Turing in 1936.

Why is the undecidability of the Regular Turing Machine important?

The undecidability of the Regular Turing Machine is important because it shows that there are problems that cannot be solved by any computer program. This has significant implications in computer science, as it limits the capabilities of computers and highlights the importance of developing efficient algorithms.

Are there any other undecidable problems in theoretical computer science?

Yes, there are many other undecidable problems in theoretical computer science. Some notable examples include the Post Correspondence Problem, the Entscheidungsproblem, and the Busy Beaver Problem. These problems have all been proven to be undecidable using various methods and have helped shape our understanding of the limits of computation.

Similar threads

  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
29
Views
3K
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top