In November, mathematician Hector Pasten solved a problem by procrastinating. The sequence 2, 5, 10, 17, 26, etc., generated by n² + 1, highlights the complex relationship between addition and multiplication. Pasten’s groundbreaking work showed that numbers in the sequence must have at least one large prime factor, challenging previous beliefs. His innovative technique shed light on the famous, controversial abc conjecture. Pasten’s findings are a remarkable advancement that could revolutionize number theory. His work could have lasting implications on various mathematical problems involving addition and multiplication, sparking excitement and anticipation within the mathematical community.
https://www.quantamagazine.org/big-advance-on-simple-sounding-math-problem-was-a-century-in-the-making-20241014/