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Chinese doctor cracks decades-old math problem using ChatGPT

A Chinese neurosurgeon solved a complex mathematical conjecture in just 16 hours using AI.

By Jin Shanmu and OpenAI·Aug 14·scmp.com·3 min read

Intelligence analysis by Qwen 2.5 (3B)

Chinese doctor cracks decades-old math problem using ChatGPT
Image: scmp.com

A Beijing-based neurosurgeon used an AI model to solve a decades-old math problem, proving Crouzeix's conjecture in numerical linear algebra.

Why it matters

This breakthrough could have significant implications for fields like machine learning and data analysis.

A doctor used a super smart computer to solve an old math puzzle that had been hard for people to figure out. This could help make computers better at understanding and using numbers.

Analysis

{"#Crouzeix's Conjecture":-1.1,"The conjecture proposed by French mathematician Michel Crouzeix has puzzled experts since 2004, stating that the norm of applying any function to a matrix is no larger than twice the function’s maximum value on that matrix’s numerical range. Jin Shanmu's proof challenges this long-standing belief and opens new avenues for research in numerical linear algebra. The problem's resolution could lead to advancements in machine learning algorithms and data analysis techniques, potentially revolutionizing how we process and interpret complex mathematical models. This breakthrough underscores the potential of AI in solving complex theoretical problems that have eluded mathematicians for decades. Jin Shanmu's work not only validates the capabilities of modern AI but also highlights the interdisciplinary nature of cutting-edge research where fields like mathematics and machine learning intersect to yield groundbreaking results. The implications extend beyond pure mathematical curiosity, as applications could range from improving medical imaging techniques to enhancing cybersecurity measures by better understanding matrix norms in encryption algorithms. As Jin Shanmu's work demonstrates, the synergy between AI and advanced mathematical theories is a promising area for future research and innovation.":-2,"#The Role of ChatGPT":-1.1,"Jin Shanmu utilized GPT-5.6-Sol, an advanced version of OpenAI’s ChatGPT Work platform, to solve Crouzeix's conjecture in just 16 hours. This rapid solution underscores the potential of AI models like ChatGPT in tackling complex mathematical problems that have eluded human mathematicians for years. The use of such sophisticated AI tools not only accelerates the problem-solving process but also demonstrates their ability to handle intricate theoretical challenges, pushing the boundaries of what is considered feasible within the realm of numerical linear algebra. This development highlights the growing integration of AI in scientific research and its potential to transform how we approach and solve complex mathematical conjectures. The success of Jin Shanmu's work with ChatGPT-Sol not only validates the capabilities of these advanced AI models but also underscores their role as powerful tools for researchers across various disciplines, including mathematics and machine learning.":-2,"#Implications for Research":-1.1,"The resolution of Crouzeix's conjecture by Jin Shanmu using ChatGPT-Sol has significant implications for ongoing research in numerical linear algebra and related fields. This breakthrough could lead to new methodologies for analyzing matrix norms, which are fundamental to many areas of mathematics and computer science. For instance, in machine learning, understanding the behavior of functions applied to matrices is crucial for optimizing algorithms and improving their performance. Jin Shanmu's work suggests that AI models like ChatGPT-Sol can be harnessed to explore new frontiers in matrix analysis, potentially leading to more efficient and accurate computational methods. Additionally, this development could influence how researchers approach theoretical problems by providing them with powerful tools to tackle complex mathematical conjectures. The success of Jin Shanmu's work not only validates the capabilities of AI but also highlights its potential as a valuable asset for advancing scientific knowledge in fields where traditional approaches may be insufficient or too time-consuming.":-2}

Key points

  • Jin Shanmu used ChatGPT-Sol to solve Crouzeix's conjecture in numerical linear algebra
  • The problem had been unsolved since 2004 and related to matrix analysis
  • This could lead to advancements in machine learning and data analysis
The Upside

This breakthrough could lead to more advanced AI models, which can improve how we process information and analyze data in various fields like medicine and cybersecurity.

The Downside

There might be risks if the technology is misused or not properly regulated, leading to potential misuse of AI solutions for solving complex problems.

Originally reported at

scmp.com

Discernion covers the story. Read the full piece at the source.

Tagsai-agentsmathematicschina

Author

Jin Shanmu and OpenAI

Intelligence analysis by

Qwen 2.5 (3B)

Published

Aug 14, 2026

Source

scmp.com

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Topics

ai-agentsmathematicschina

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