Is the Binomial Coefficient Test a Reliable Prime Indicator?

In summary, the conversation discusses a conjecture about determining whether a given odd integer is prime. The conjecture states that if a certain condition holds, then the number is prime. However, further research shows that this condition is not always true, as there are some non-prime numbers that satisfy it. This has led to the concept of "Catalan pseudoprimes".
  • #1
RLBrown
60
0
I was examining the AKS and discovered this conjecture.

Please prove the following true or false.
Let n be an odd integer >2

then n is prime IFF
$\left(
\begin{array}{c}
n-1 \\
\frac{n-1}{2} \\
\end{array}
\right)

\text{ $\equiv $ }
\pm 1$ mod n
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
RLBrown said:
I was examining the AKS and discovered this conjecture.

Please prove the following true or false.
Let n be an odd integer >2

then n is prime IFF
$\left(
\begin{array}{c}
n-1 \\
\frac{n-1}{2} \\
\end{array}
\right)

\text{ $\equiv $ }
\pm 1$ mod n
A quick internet search indicates that this result is false, but only just! In fact, the condition \(\displaystyle {n-1 \choose \frac{n-1}2} \equiv \pm1\!\!\! \pmod n\) holds whenever $n$ is prime. However, it also holds for the numbers $5907$, $1194649$ and $12327121$, which are not prime. It is not known whether there are any other non-prime odd numbers that satisfy the condition.

For more information, search for "Catalan pseudoprimes".
 

FAQ: Is the Binomial Coefficient Test a Reliable Prime Indicator?

What is the prime test conjecture?

The prime test conjecture, also known as the Goldbach conjecture, states that every even integer greater than 2 can be expressed as the sum of two prime numbers.

Has the prime test conjecture been proven?

No, the prime test conjecture has not been proven. It remains an unsolved problem in mathematics.

What progress has been made towards proving the prime test conjecture?

Many mathematicians have attempted to prove the prime test conjecture, and some progress has been made in establishing its veracity for certain ranges of even numbers. However, a complete proof has not yet been achieved.

What are the implications of proving the prime test conjecture?

If the prime test conjecture were to be proven, it would provide a deeper understanding of the distribution of prime numbers and could potentially lead to new insights and techniques in number theory.

Are there any consequences if the prime test conjecture is not true?

If the prime test conjecture is ultimately found to be false, it would significantly challenge our current understanding of prime numbers and may require rethinking many existing mathematical proofs and concepts.

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