Proving the Infinitude of Primes: Euler's Proof and Its Limitations

In summary, Euler proved that there are infinitely many prime numbers by showing that the sum of their reciprocals diverges, indicating that there are an infinite number of primes. This does not require assuming the set of primes to be infinite beforehand, but rather just that there are an infinite number of positive integers. The divergence of the series also suggests some uniformity in the distribution of primes. However, the concept of divergence and convergence in this context may be confusing and may not necessarily prove the finiteness or infinitude of the series.
  • #1
MostlyConfusd
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Infinite primes proof?

Someone told me Euler proved that there are infinitely many prime numbers by proving that the sum of their reciprocals is infinite.

I have one concern. How can you prove the infinitude of primes by this method without assuming the set to be infinite in the first place.
 
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  • #2


Search for zeta function by euler, over internet and how it's proved:

zeta_function.jpg


for s=1, LHS diverges.
So RHS must diverge as well, for s=1, which helps to deduce that rhs has infinite terms,ie. infinite number of primes.

So,you actually don't need to assume infinite number of primes before hand, but rather just that there are infinite number of positive integers.
 
  • #3


So, because the series diverges we can say there are infinitely many primes, but is that because the primes exhibit some uniformity in their distribution? my calc teacher has been over divergence and convergence several times and all that divergence seems to mean is that the denominator grows less quickly than that of a convergent function. Also, when a function converges, it dosen't prove the series is finite, so how can this be a helpful test?
 

1. What is the "Infinite Primes Proof"?

The "Infinite Primes Proof" is a mathematical proof that demonstrates the existence of an infinite number of prime numbers. It was first proposed by Euclid in 300 BC and has been refined and expanded upon by many mathematicians since then.

2. How does the "Infinite Primes Proof" work?

The proof is based on the fundamental theorem of arithmetic, which states that every positive integer can be uniquely expressed as a product of prime numbers. It uses a method of contradiction, assuming that there is a largest prime number and then showing that this assumption leads to a contradiction.

3. Is the "Infinite Primes Proof" accepted by all mathematicians?

Yes, the "Infinite Primes Proof" is widely accepted and is considered to be a fundamental proof in number theory. It has been studied and verified by countless mathematicians over the centuries and is a cornerstone of modern mathematics.

4. Why is the "Infinite Primes Proof" important?

The proof not only demonstrates the existence of an infinite number of prime numbers, but it also provides a deeper understanding of the structure and properties of these numbers. It has also led to further developments in number theory and other areas of mathematics.

5. Can the "Infinite Primes Proof" be easily understood by non-mathematicians?

The proof can be challenging to understand for those without a strong background in mathematics. However, there are simplified explanations and visualizations available that can make the concepts more accessible. Ultimately, the proof serves as a testament to the power and beauty of mathematical reasoning and discovery.

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