Bounds on Chebyshev Function ##\theta (x)##

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the bounds on the Chebyshev function ##\theta (x)##, specifically the claim that ##\theta (x) < x## for very large ##x##. Participants explore the existence of proofs for this claim, reference existing bounds, and inquire about the current state of knowledge regarding ##\theta (x)##.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant recalls that Dusart proved ##\theta (x) < x## for large ##x## and seeks sources for this proof.
  • Another participant provides a link indicating that ##|\theta(x) - x| < 0.007 \frac{x}{\ln x}## for ##x > 10^7##.
  • A different participant questions whether the claim ##\theta (x) < x## has been proven, suggesting it may be difficult to establish or that counter-examples might exist.
  • One participant suggests searching online for information on the Chebyshev function, noting the asymptotic behavior ##\theta(x) \sim x##.
  • A participant expresses frustration in finding references for Dusart's tighter bound and concludes that the non-proven status of ##\theta (x) < x## is useful information.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on whether the bound ##\theta (x) < x## has been proven, with some suggesting it remains unproven while others reference existing bounds.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the complexity of proving bounds on ##\theta (x)## and the potential for missing references or assumptions in the existing literature.

Physicist97
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Hello,

I remember reading somewhere that Dusart proved that ##\theta (x)<x## for very large ##x##. Where ##\theta (x)## is the first Chebyshev function (the sum of the logarithms of all primes less than or equal to ##x##). I couldn't find any source for this and was wondering if anybody had one, or maybe knew Dusart's proof of it. Also I wondered what are currently the best bounds on ##\theta (x)## ?
 
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It seems no one has proven ##\theta (x)<x## . Is it simply hard to prove or has there been some counter-example to this bound?
 
Have you searched the internet on the Chebyshev function? There must be plenty of entries I guess.

Edit: Sorry, too late now for me to think about how Dusart's result match with the asymptotic behavior ##\theta(x) \sim x##.
 
I have searched the Internet for quite some time now, but the best bounds I could find were the ones you linked to that Dusart published. I had heard mention on a similar sight that Dusart had proven the tighter bound I mentioned before, but no reference was given. That's why I thought of asking on here, and to me it seems that bound hasn't been proven yet. Thank you for the help, knowing ##\theta (x)<x## isn't proven yet is good enough info for me :) .
 

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