Navier-Stokes – Tristan Buckmaster [pdf]

A computer-checked mathematical proof can still require substantial work before people can understand it. Mathematician Tristan Buckmaster describes that gap in a statement about AI-assisted fluid-dynamics research. The statement reports that a proof generated by a language model was verified in Lean, a formal proof checker, on August 22, after which the authors worked around the clock to understand it and turn it into something readable. That account distinguishes checking that an argument follows formal rules from presenting its ideas clearly enough for other mathematicians to scrutinize and build on. The remaining work was explanation, even after the reported formal check.