Is Proof for P = NP Finally on the Horizon?

  • Thread starter jobyts
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Proof
In summary, a researcher at HP Labs claims to have a proof for the P != NP problem, but there are some issues and doubts surrounding it. Some experts are currently reviewing the proof, but there is no confirmation yet on its validity.
  • #1
jobyts
227
64
Proof for P != NP coming?

http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/10/hp-labs-researcher-thinks-he-might-have-proof-of-p-np-has-anoth/"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


While it does look more promising than the usual crackpot attempts at the millennium problems there are some issues. See http://rjlipton.wordpress.com/2010/08/09/issues-in-the-proof-that-p%E2%89%A0np/" (there's some further discussion in the comments). It is not currently known whether the proof strategy may produce results when the issues are addressed, but personally I remain skeptical.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #5


I cannot provide a definitive answer to this question as it is still a highly debated and complex topic in the field of computer science. However, I can offer some insights and perspectives on this matter.

Firstly, it is important to understand that the P vs NP problem is one of the biggest unsolved problems in theoretical computer science. It deals with the question of whether certain problems can be solved efficiently (in polynomial time) or not (in non-deterministic polynomial time). The implications of solving this problem would have a significant impact on various fields such as cryptography, optimization, and artificial intelligence.

The article mentions that a researcher from HP Labs believes he may have a proof for P = NP. While this may be exciting news, it is important to note that many other researchers have claimed to have found a proof for this problem in the past, but none have been accepted by the wider scientific community. Thus, it is crucial for this potential proof to undergo rigorous scrutiny and peer-review before it can be considered as a breakthrough in the field.

Moreover, the article also mentions that the researcher has another proof for P != NP. This is an equally important and interesting result, as it would also have significant implications for the field. However, it is important to approach this with caution and not jump to conclusions until the proof has been thoroughly examined and validated by other experts in the field.

In conclusion, while the possibility of a proof for P = NP or P != NP is certainly exciting, it is important to approach this with a critical and scientific mindset. Only through rigorous testing and validation can we truly determine if we are finally on the horizon of solving this long-standing problem.
 

Related to Is Proof for P = NP Finally on the Horizon?

What is P vs. NP?

P vs. NP is a famous problem in computer science that asks whether or not certain problems can be solved quickly (in polynomial time) by a computer. P stands for "polynomial time," meaning the time it takes to solve a problem is proportional to the number of inputs. NP stands for "nondeterministic polynomial time," meaning a computer can guess the solution to a problem quickly, but verifying the solution takes longer.

Why is P vs. NP important?

P vs. NP is important because it has huge implications for computer science and mathematics. If P = NP, it would mean that certain notoriously difficult problems, such as the traveling salesman problem, could be solved quickly by computers. This would have significant implications for fields like cryptography and optimization.

What is the current status of P vs. NP?

As of now, P vs. NP remains an unsolved problem and one of the most challenging questions in computer science. While many have attempted to prove that P = NP or P ≠ NP, no one has been able to definitively solve the problem. The question remains open and continues to spark debates and research in the scientific community.

What would be the impact of a proof for P = NP?

If a proof for P = NP were to be discovered, it would have a tremendous impact on the world of computer science and mathematics. It would open up new possibilities for solving complex problems and would have implications for fields such as artificial intelligence, data analysis, and cryptography. It could also potentially revolutionize the way we approach and solve problems in various industries.

How close are we to finding a proof for P = NP?

It is difficult to say how close we are to finding a proof for P = NP. Some experts believe that the problem may be unsolvable, while others are optimistic that a proof may be found in the future. As of now, there is no clear answer, but researchers continue to work towards solving this intriguing problem.

Similar threads

  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
52
Views
3K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
4
Views
843
  • General Math
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
24
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
21
Views
5K
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Science and Math Textbooks
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • General Math
Replies
5
Views
2K
Back
Top