Need a check on calculating prime distributions for large values

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the distribution of prime numbers, particularly focusing on large primes with 10,000 digits. Participants explore different methods and formulas to estimate the likelihood of finding primes in this range, referencing the prime number theorem and logarithmic calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes a formula for estimating the probability of finding a prime with n digits, suggesting a correlation with the number of digits.
  • Another participant cites the prime number theorem, stating that for large numbers around N, approximately 1/ln(N) of those numbers are prime, specifically calculating this for 10,000-digit numbers.
  • A participant acknowledges the inadequacy of their initial formula after referencing the prime number theorem.
  • Several participants mention the use of WolframAlpha for handling large logarithmic calculations, suggesting it as a tool for verifying computations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the application of the prime number theorem for estimating the fraction of primes among large numbers, but there is no consensus on the accuracy of the initial proposed formula for smaller digit counts.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the limitations of the proposed formula or the assumptions underlying the calculations, particularly regarding its accuracy for smaller numbers of digits.

mesa
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My calculator isn't at all happy running the likely hood of finding a prime at 10,000 digits. Since there is a correlation very close to 1/2 the number of primes for each increase of 1000 digits after 1000 digits I was thinking I could just use,

1/2^(n/1000)×1151.3 = probability of finding a prime for n # of digits

This doesn't work at all for a small number of digits but I am only concerned about gigantic primes and above. Anyone have an idea to about how many digits this function will be accurate?
 
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Prime number theorem
For numbers around a large number N, approximately 1/ln(N) of those numbers are prime.

For numbers with 10000 digits, the fraction of primes is ##\frac{1}{\ln(10^{10000}) } \approx \frac{1}{23000}##
 
mfb said:
Prime number theorem
For numbers around a large number N, approximately 1/ln(N) of those numbers are prime.

For numbers with 10000 digits, the fraction of primes is ##\frac{1}{\ln(10^{10000}) } \approx \frac{1}{23000}##

Okay so the function I wrote is bunk :)

Where did I get a calculator that can handle the ln10^10000?
 
mfb said:

It sure can, thanks for the link!

Alternatively, use log rules: ln(1010000)=10000*ln(10).

Realized that right after I left to get my kids. Brain back-logged :)
 

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