1

Public key 3, 4 fits the equation of y^2 = x^2 + 7

Yet this comes up as an "invalid public key". How is that invalid? Sure, it deviates extremely from other numbers, but what other equations are being applied to the public key to determine its validity?

3
  • 1
    The formula is y^2 = x^3 + 7. I don't think there are any small-number solutions. Jul 13, 2014 at 18:45
  • 1
    Not sure this is what you are talking about, but apparently y^2=x^3+7 has no integral solutions.
    – Murch
    Jul 14, 2014 at 15:05
  • 1
    That's OK because secp256k1 doesn't just use plain integers, the equation above is evaluated with integers modulo a very large prime N. Really the equation is: y^2 = x^3 + 7 mod N. Feb 2, 2015 at 18:46

1 Answer 1

1

You got the formula wrong.

The correct formula is

y2 = x3 + 7 mod N

where N is a very large prime.

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.