How Did GIMPS Discover the New Largest Prime Number in 2016?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the discovery of the largest known prime number, 274,207,281-1, by GIMPS in 2016, including the circumstances of its discovery, its significance, and related reflections on prime numbers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • GIMPS celebrated its 20th anniversary with the discovery of the largest known prime number, which has 22,338,618 digits, significantly larger than the previous record.
  • Dr. Cooper's computer reported the prime to the server in September 2015, but a bug delayed the notification until it was discovered during database maintenance.
  • Some participants express amazement at the growth in the size of known prime numbers over time.
  • There is speculation about the existence of even larger prime numbers yet to be discovered.
  • Participants discuss the statement from the Belgian press regarding the unknown quantity of prime numbers, with some noting that it reflects the current understanding of prime numbers.
  • There is a humorous exchange regarding the infinite nature of prime numbers, with some participants engaging in light-hearted banter about the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of amazement at the size of the new prime and curiosity about the nature of prime numbers. There is no consensus on the implications of the statement regarding the number of prime numbers, as some participants challenge its accuracy while others agree with its uncertainty.

Contextual Notes

Some statements reflect personal experiences and opinions about the growth of prime numbers, while others highlight the technical aspects of the discovery process. The discussion includes humor and informal commentary, which may influence the interpretation of the technical claims.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in number theory, prime numbers, and the history of mathematical discoveries may find this discussion engaging.

DrClaude
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January 7, 2016 — GIMPS celebrated its 20th anniversary with the discovery of the largest known prime number, 274,207,281-1. Curtis Cooper, one of many thousands of GIMPS volunteers, used one of his university's computers to make the find. The prime number, also known as M74207281, is calculated by multiplying together 74,207,281 twos then subtracting one. It has 22,338,618 digits -- almost 5 million digits longer than the previous record prime number.
Source: http://www.mersenne.org/

See also the press release.
 
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From the press release:
GIMPS Press release said:
Interestingly, Dr. Cooper's computer reported the prime to the server on September 17, 2015. However, a bug prevented the email notification from being sent. The new prime remained unnoticed until routine database maintenance took place months later.
:oldsmile:

Anyway, when I was born the largest known prime had 687 digits. Now standing at 22,338,618. Amazing number!
 
Samy_A said:
Anyway, when I was born the largest known prime had 687 digits.
This is an interesting inverse problem. Fortunately, it is well-posed. :smile:
 
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I'm sure there's another one even larger just around the corner.

Imagine how many we'd have if they were tied to winning the powerball lottery.
 

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Shouldn't someone write to them about that?
 
UncertaintyAjay said:
Shouldn't someone write to them about that?
I sent them an email (that's the functionality they have to suggest corrections).
 
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Samy_A said:
The last sentence says (translated): "It is not known how many prime numbers there are." :headbang:
What's wrong about it? No one knows how many! :-p
 
fresh_42 said:
What's wrong about it? No one knows how many! :-p
Countably infinite ?
 
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Samy_A said:
From the press release:
:oldsmile:

Anyway, when I was born the largest known prime had 687 digits. Now standing at 22,338,618. Amazing number!
@Samy_A

I see that you are now wearing an official "Homework Helper" badge.

Congrats!
 
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