AI in China cracks decade-old algebra problem without human intervention

WorldTechnology
13 Apr 2026 • 8:45 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

AI in China cracks decade-old algebra problem without human intervention

  • A Chinese artificial intelligence system has successfully solved a decade-old algebra conjecture, originally proposed by American mathematician Dan Anderson in 2014.
  • Developed by a Peking University team, the AI processed extensive mathematical literature and verified its findings autonomously, requiring no human intervention.
  • The system utilises a reasoning framework called Rethlas to explore problem-solving strategies, and Archon to formalise potential proofs using the Lean 4 theorem prover.
  • Researchers observed that the AI could perform complex mathematical tasks faster than any human, showcasing its potential to substantially automate mathematical research.
  • Although the AI solved the problem independently within 80 hours, scientists noted that human guidance could further accelerate the process.

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