2020's Biggest Breakthroughs in Math and Computer Science

Recent questions

• What is quantum entanglement and why did Albert Einstein find it "spooky"?

  Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where particles can interact instantaneously over vast distances, regardless of the space between them. Albert Einstein found this concept "spooky" because it seemed to violate the principles of classical physics, suggesting a mysterious connection between particles that defied traditional notions of cause and effect.

• What is the halting problem in computers, as identified by Alan Turing in 1936?

  The halting problem, as identified by Alan Turing in 1936, refers to the issue where a computer program can get stuck in an infinite loop, making it impossible to predict when or if the program will halt or complete its task. This fundamental limitation highlights the inherent complexity and unpredictability of certain computational processes.

• How did Henry Yuen and co-authors use quantum entanglement to solve complex mathematical questions?

  Henry Yuen and his co-authors developed a landmark proof in computational complexity theory involving interactive proofs, demonstrating how quantum entanglement can be utilized to solve complex mathematical questions. By leveraging the unique properties of quantum entanglement, they were able to tackle intricate mathematical problems in a novel and innovative way.

• What was the Conway knot problem, and how did Lisa Piccirillo solve it?

  The Conway knot problem revolved around determining whether the Conway knot could be represented as a slice of a higher dimensional knot, a question that had puzzled mathematicians for years. Lisa Piccirillo, a graduate student, successfully proved that the Conway knot was not a slice of a higher dimensional knot, resolving a long-standing mathematical mystery in the field of knot theory.

• How is Kevin Buzzard at Imperial College London using Lean software to digitize mathematics?

  Kevin Buzzard at Imperial College London is utilizing Lean software to digitize mathematics, enabling the handling of complex proofs and theorems in a digital format. By digitizing mathematical concepts, Buzzard aims to create an artificial intelligence system capable of verifying and generating new mathematical proofs, revolutionizing the field of mathematics through innovative technological advancements.