Explore the fascinating Collatz conjecture, also known as the 3n+1 problem, in this 33-minute mathematics video. Delve into the history, evidence, and variants of this deceptively simple yet notoriously challenging mathematical problem. Learn about strategies for tackling the conjecture, including working in base 2 arithmetic. Discover why this problem has captivated mathematicians for decades and attempt exercises to deepen your understanding. Gain insights into number theory and the addictive nature of this famous unsolved problem in mathematics.
Overview
Syllabus
Introduction
The conjecture proposed in 1937 by Lothar Collatz
Evidence: the conjecture is true for all known starting values
Variants
The 5n + 1 problem Roosendahl
A natural strategy: Convert to base 2, or base 3 or base 6
Working in base 2
Some Exercises related to the Collatz Problem
Taught by
Insights into Mathematics
