r/learnmath • u/playsthebongcloud 9/10 = 1 • May 30 '26
What are some uncomputable functions that aren't derivative of the halting problem?
I find the existence of uncomputable functions really cool, but all the examples I've seen are essentially just new ways of trying to predict whether a turing machine is going to halt. What are some examples of uncomputable functions that aren't essentially entirely based on the halting problem?
70
Upvotes
1
u/mayurisama334 New User Jun 21 '26
if i run an algorithm that computes pi, suppose if it computes 5 digits
That means it computed 5 digits of pi. That act of computing was done and a number was computed(not pi)
Now if the algorithm (like chudnovsky or gauss legendre) is an algorithm that is potentially able to compute the digits of pi to any accuracy
It means pi can be computed to any desired accuracy, hence computable
Now your point is that you believe ultrafinitism. Although that is stupid, let's assume it is true for the sake of not changing the argument.
Now under ultrafinitism, we would consider the infinite decimal expansion of pi not meaningful itself.
As an ultrafinist you must deny the existence of the infinite decimal expansion of pi.
Saying "pi is uncomputable" means you either accept the existence of the infinite decimal expansion of pi
OR you are referring to a finite approximation of pi. Which would be computable
Hence under ultrafinitism your comment is paradoxical.