晚点专访张益唐：70 岁数学家，追逐第二次闪电

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the life and achievements of Zhang Yitang, a mathematician known for solving the twin prime conjecture, emphasizing his unique approach to mathematics and the importance of pursuing significant problems over conventional academic success [6][12][40]. Group 1: Zhang Yitang's Journey - Zhang Yitang faced numerous challenges in his early career, including job rejections and living in a trailer, before achieving fame at the age of 58 by solving a century-old mathematical problem [3][6]. - His return to China in June 2023 to join Sun Yat-sen University reflects a growing emphasis on basic scientific research in the country [3][36]. Group 2: Approach to Mathematics - Zhang's methodology involves focusing on a few significant problems for many years without seeking interim results, which is atypical in modern academia [6][14][22]. - He believes that the most important problems are those that have remained unsolved for decades, and he emphasizes the need for unique perspectives to achieve breakthroughs [7][23]. Group 3: Twin Prime Conjecture and Future Work - The twin prime conjecture posits that there are infinitely many pairs of prime numbers that differ by two, and Zhang proved that there are infinitely many pairs with a difference of less than 70 million [8][12]. - Following his proof, mathematicians collaborated to reduce the gap from 70 million to 246, showcasing the collaborative nature of modern mathematical research [8][12]. Group 4: Current Research Focus - Zhang is currently working on the Langlands-Siegel zero conjecture, which is considered a foundational problem in number theory, with potential implications for the Riemann hypothesis [8][30]. - He has expressed confidence in having made significant progress on this conjecture, although he finds the process of simplifying his findings challenging [9][30]. Group 5: Views on AI and Mathematics - Zhang is skeptical about AI's ability to solve complex mathematical problems like the Riemann hypothesis, emphasizing that human intuition and creativity are irreplaceable [12][33]. - He acknowledges that while AI can assist in mathematical research, it cannot fully replace human thought processes [33][35]. Group 6: Personal Philosophy and Motivation - Zhang's motivation stems from a deep curiosity and a desire to push the boundaries of knowledge rather than material success [12][40]. - He believes that the ability to focus intensely on mathematical problems is a crucial trait for success in the field [38].