Fermat's Theorem: A Math Problem and the Smart Boy Who Proved It Wrong

In summary, a computer scientist claimed to have proven the Fermat theorem for three specific numbers at a press conference. However, a 10-year-old boy pointed out a mistake in the scientist's calculations, leading to the discovery of a bug. The boy noticed a pattern in the digits of the numbers that disproved the possibility of the Fermat theorem holding for those specific numbers when n is greater than 2.
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uranium_235
36
0
from: http://www.math.utah.edu/~cherk/puzzles.html
Fermat, computers, and a smart boy
A computer scientist claims that he proved somehow that the Fermat theorem is correct for the following 3 numbers:

x=2233445566,
y=7788990011,
z=9988776655

He announces these 3 numbers and calls for a press conference where he is going to present the value of N (to show that

x^N + y^N = z^N

and that the guy from Princeton was wrong). As the press conference starts, a 10-years old boy raises his hand and says that the respectable scientist has made a mistake and the Fermat theorem cannot hold for those 3 numbers. The scientist checks his computer calculations and finds a bug.

How did the boy figure out that the scientist was wrong?

I am stumped, I noticed the pattern in the digits of the numbers, but I do not see how I can link that to the possibility of forming such a statement with those numbers when n is greater than 2.
 
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  • #2
x==1Mod 5, Y==1 Mod 5, Z==0 Mod 5.
 
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It is impressive that a 10-year-old boy was able to spot the mistake in the computer scientist's proof of Fermat's Theorem. This is a testament to the power of critical thinking and intuition in mathematics. While the specific details of how the boy figured out the mistake are not mentioned, there are a few possible explanations.

First, it is possible that the boy had a deep understanding of the patterns and properties of numbers, which allowed him to recognize that the numbers chosen by the scientist did not follow the necessary conditions for Fermat's Theorem to hold. For example, Fermat's Theorem only holds for positive integers, and it is possible that the boy noticed that one or more of the numbers chosen were not positive integers.

Another possibility is that the boy had prior knowledge of Fermat's Theorem and recognized that the numbers chosen did not fit the equation. Perhaps he had studied the theorem in school or had come across it in his own mathematical explorations. This prior knowledge and understanding allowed him to quickly spot the mistake in the scientist's proof.

Finally, it is also possible that the boy simply had a keen eye for detail and noticed a discrepancy in the numbers presented. He may have noticed that the numbers did not follow a certain pattern or did not seem to fit the equation given. This shows the importance of paying attention to every detail in mathematics, as even the smallest mistake can lead to a faulty proof.

In any case, the boy's ability to spot the mistake in the scientist's proof is impressive and serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of age or background, can contribute to the world of mathematics. It also highlights the importance of double-checking and verifying proofs, as even the most respected scientists and mathematicians can make mistakes.
 

FAQ: Fermat's Theorem: A Math Problem and the Smart Boy Who Proved It Wrong

1. What is Fermat's theorem math problem?

Fermat's theorem, also known as Fermat's Last Theorem, is a famous mathematical problem proposed by Pierre de Fermat in the 17th century. It states that no three positive integers a, b, and c can satisfy the equation an + bn = cn for any integer value of n greater than 2.

2. Has Fermat's theorem been proven?

Yes, in 1994, Andrew Wiles, a British mathematician, presented a proof for Fermat's theorem after working on it for seven years. His proof uses advanced mathematical concepts and techniques and has been accepted by the mathematical community.

3. Why is Fermat's theorem considered significant?

Fermat's theorem is considered significant because it is a challenging problem that has puzzled mathematicians for centuries. It also has connections to other areas of mathematics, such as number theory and algebraic geometry, and has led to the development of new mathematical techniques.

4. Are there any real-life applications of Fermat's theorem?

While Fermat's theorem may not have direct real-life applications, the techniques and concepts used in its proof have been applied to other areas of mathematics and science. For example, elliptic curves, which were used in Wiles' proof, have applications in cryptography and coding theory.

5. Are there any other famous unsolved math problems like Fermat's theorem?

Yes, there are several other famous unsolved math problems, such as the Collatz conjecture, the Goldbach conjecture, and the Riemann hypothesis. These problems have been open for decades, and their solutions could have significant implications in various fields of mathematics.

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