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Probabilistic algorithm for testing primality

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Abstract

We present a practical probabilistic algorithm for testing large numbers of arbitrary form for primality. The algorithm has the feature that when it determines a number composite then the result is always true, but when it asserts that a number is prime there is a provably small probability of error. The algorithm was used to generate large numbers asserted to be primes of arbitrary and special forms, including very large numbers asserted to be twin primes. Theoretical foundations as well as details of implementation and experimental results are given.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)128-138
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Number Theory
Volume12
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 1980

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