OpenAI claims discoveries across mathematics, computing and physics

OpenAI says its AI models have proved the local smoothing conjecture in every spatial dimension, disproved the Exponential Time Hypothesis and provided a mathematically rigorous proof of quantum chromodynamics. The claims span harmonic analysis, computational complexity and the physics of quarks and gluons.

The local smoothing conjecture had previously been proved only in three dimensions. University of Rochester mathematics professor Alex Iosevich described the apparent advance as a historic development and predicted substantial changes to theoretical mathematics. MIT computational complexity expert Ryan Williams said researchers were still verifying the proposed refutation of the Exponential Time Hypothesis. If confirmed, it would challenge an assumption underpinning extensive theoretical computer science research. Williams said practical applications were unlikely in the short term, but future societal benefits were possible.

OpenAI enlisted outside scientists to interpret its research data and consulted expert groups on how to release the findings. The mathematics and computer science groups chose immediate publication of the AI-produced data, while the physics group delayed release to prepare its interpretation. OpenAI acknowledged that selecting initial collaborators creates unequal access to information. The announcement follows Anthropic’s claimed discovery of a CRISPR-like enzyme, which drew both enthusiasm and criticism over its significance.