The Riemann Zeta function is a complex function denoted as , where is a complex number. It is defined for by the infinite series:
This function converges to a finite value in that domain. The significance of the Riemann Zeta function extends beyond pure mathematics; it is closely linked to the distribution of prime numbers through the Riemann Hypothesis, which posits that all non-trivial zeros of this function lie on the critical line where the real part of is . Additionally, the Zeta function can be analytically continued to other values of (except for , where it has a simple pole), making it a pivotal tool in number theory and complex analysis. Its applications reach into quantum physics, statistical mechanics, and even in areas of cryptography.
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