ChatGPT just proved another 50-year-old math conjecture
OpenAI's latest model successfully proved the 50-year-old cycle double cover conjecture by utilizing collaborative agents and persistent, iterative problem-solving strategies.Summary
OpenAI has utilized its new large language model, GPT-5.6 Sol, to solve the long-standing 'cycle double cover conjecture,' a mathematical problem regarding graph theory that had remained unsolved for over 50 years. The achievement was made possible by employing a multi-agent system that worked in parallel to cross-verify results, combined with specific prompting techniques that encouraged the AI to dedicate significant time and effort to the task rather than prematurely dismissing the problem as unsolvable. Experts suggest this milestone demonstrates how AI can overcome the psychological bias where mathematicians avoid 'hard' problems, revealing that many complex-seeming conjectures have solutions reachable through persistent application of existing methods.
(Source：Scientific American)