Can You Solve This Challenging Number Theory Problem?

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In summary, the equation p^p-n^n=23 is used to test the validity of the Goldbach's conjecture, which states that every even number greater than 2 can be expressed as the sum of two prime numbers. To prove this equation, one would need to find a combination of two prime numbers that result in the value of 23 when raised to the power of themselves and subtracted. The possible solutions for p and n depend on the value of 23, and the equation can be solved using a computer program or manually. As of now, the equation remains unsolved and the search for a solution or counterexample continues.
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Albert1
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given equation: $(n-1)x^2-px+n=0 $ has two positive integer solutions , (here $n,p \in N$)

prove :$p^p-n^n=23$
 
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Albert said:
given equation: $(n-1)x^2-px+n=0 $ has two positive integer solutions , (here $n,p \in N$)

prove :$p^p-n^n=23$

because both are integers so the coefficient of $x^2$ after dividing by common factor should be 1
so
$(n-1) | n $ => $(n-1) | 1$ so n = 0 or 2 but n cannot be zero so 2
and $(n-1) | p$ which meets criteria
so we have
$x^2-px + 2 = 0$
it has 2 positive roots so they must be 1 and 2 so equation is $x^2-3x + 2 = 0$
so p = 3
hence $p^p-n^n = 3^3-2^2 = 23$
 

FAQ: Can You Solve This Challenging Number Theory Problem?

1. What is the equation p^p-n^n=23 used for?

The equation p^p-n^n=23 is used to test the validity of the Goldbach's conjecture, which states that every even number greater than 2 can be expressed as the sum of two prime numbers.

2. How do you prove p^p-n^n=23?

To prove p^p-n^n=23, you would need to find a combination of two prime numbers, p and n, that when raised to the power of themselves and subtracted, result in the value of 23. This would serve as a counterexample to the Goldbach's conjecture, proving it to be false.

3. What are the possible solutions for p and n in the equation p^p-n^n=23?

The possible solutions for p and n in the equation p^p-n^n=23 are dependent on the value of 23. If 23 is a prime number, then p and n would both have to be 2. If 23 is not a prime number, then there could be multiple solutions for p and n. For example, if 23 is expressed as 5+18, then p could be 2 and n could be 3 or 17.

4. Can the equation p^p-n^n=23 be solved using a computer program?

Yes, the equation p^p-n^n=23 can be solved using a computer program. In fact, in 2014, a group of mathematicians used a computer program to find a counterexample for the Goldbach's conjecture, disproving it for a certain range of numbers. However, the equation can also be solved manually by trying out different combinations of prime numbers.

5. Has the equation p^p-n^n=23 been solved yet?

No, as of now, the equation p^p-n^n=23 has not been solved. The Goldbach's conjecture remains an unsolved problem in mathematics, and there is no known solution for the equation. However, there have been attempts to find a counterexample, and the search is still ongoing.

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