Get the latest tech news

Team claims to have Lean 4 proof that P≠NP


This paper establishes the separation of complexity classes $\mathbf{P}$ and $\mathbf{NP}$ through a novel homological algebraic approach grounded in category theory. We construct the computational category $\mathbf{Comp}$, embedding computational problems and reductions into a unified categorical framework. By developing computational homology theory, we associate to each problem $L$ a chain complex $C_{\bullet}(L)$ whose homology groups $H_n(L)$ capture topological invariants of computational processes. Our main result demonstrates that problems in $\mathbf{P}$ exhibit trivial computational homology ($H_n(L) = 0$ for all $n > 0$), while $\mathbf{NP}$-complete problems such as SAT possess non-trivial homology ($H_1(\mathrm{SAT}) \neq 0$). This homological distinction provides the first rigorous proof of $\mathbf{P} \neq \mathbf{NP}$ using topological methods. The proof is formally verified in Lean 4, ensuring absolute mathematical rigor. Our work inaugurates computational topology as a new paradigm for complexity analysis, offering finer distinctions than traditional combinatorial approaches and establishing connections between structural complexity theory and homological invariants.

None

Get the Android app

Or read this on Hacker News

Read more on:

Photo of Proof

Proof

Photo of team

team

Photo of P≠NP

P≠NP

Related news:

News photo

Phasmophobia's new Nell's Diner map gets a release date and will be "an example" of how the team wants "all maps to feel going forward"

News photo

Codev lets enterprises avoid vibe coding hangovers with a team of agents that generate and document code

News photo

Apple TV and Peacock team up on a bundle that costs $15 per month