Lecture Notes in Mathematics

Wirsching, Günther J.

The 3n+1 function T is defined by T(n)=n/2 for n even, and T(n)=(3n+1)/2 for n odd. The famous 3n+1 conjecture, which remains open, states that, for any starting number n>0, iterated application of T to n eventually produces 1. After a survey of theorems concerning the 3n+1 problem, the main focus of the book are 3n+1 predecessor sets. These are analyzed using, e.g., elementary number theory, combinatorics, asymptotic analysis, and abstract measure theory. The book is written for any mathematician interested in the 3n+1 problem, and in the wealth of mathematical ideas employed to attack it.

Details

Published by: Springer

Publication Date: 1998-02-19

Format: Paperback

ISBN-13: 9783540639701

DOI: 10.1007/BFb0095985

Dimensions: 279cm x216cm

Pages: 164