Find b from a=b^x mod x^2 given a,x,p,q

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter vanvincent
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on finding the value of b in the equation a = b^x mod x^2, given known values of a and x, as well as the prime factors p and q of x. The conversation explores various mathematical approaches and theorems relevant to modular arithmetic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests manipulating the equation to express b as a = b^x, leading to b = a^(1/x).
  • Another participant emphasizes the need for a modular arithmetic approach to the problem.
  • A suggestion is made to use Euler's theorem, although a later reply questions how to apply it effectively to the specific problem.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about their understanding of Euler's theorem and proposes an alternative method involving an n-th root extraction algorithm, but later retracts this suggestion, indicating it may not be suitable given the known factors of n.
  • A question is raised regarding the uniqueness of the solution, citing an example where multiple bases yield the same result under modular conditions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach to solve the problem, and there are multiple competing views regarding the application of different mathematical theorems and methods.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the uniqueness of solutions in modular arithmetic, as well as the applicability of Euler's theorem and the proposed extraction algorithm. The discussion reflects uncertainty about the correct methods to apply given the specific parameters of the problem.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in modular arithmetic, number theory, and mathematical problem-solving may find the discussion relevant.

vanvincent
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
How to find b from a = b^x mod x^2, where a and x are known? prime factors p and q of x are also known.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
[tex](a)^{\frac{1}{x}}=(b^x)^{\frac{1}{x}}[/tex]
[tex]a^{\frac{1}{x}}=b[/tex]
 
in modular arithmetic please!
 
Use Euler's theorem.
 
thanks dragonfall, i looked up the euler's theorem but i don't see how to apply it to my problem. could you please elaborate how? thanks!
 
I'm sorry, I think I'm mistaken with Euler's theorem.

If [tex]a\equiv b^n (\mod n^2)[/tex] then [tex]|a-kn^2|=b^n[/tex] for some k which can be computed easily. Then you can use an n-th root extraction algorithm, without modular arithmetic.

But then I'm not using the fact that the factors of n are known, so maybe this isn't a good solution. Maybe I missed something.
 
What I said above is an exponential algorithm, so please ignore it.
 
Is there necessarily a unique solution, e.g. 0^6 = 6^6 mod 36
 

Similar threads

Replies
48
Views
6K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 31 ·
2
Replies
31
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K