A computational tool determines the number of positive integers less than or equal to a given integer, n, that are relatively prime to n. This calculation yields the value of Euler’s totient function, also known as Euler’s phi function. For example, given the integer 8, the positive integers less than 8 that are relatively prime to 8 are 1, 3, 5, and 7. Therefore, the tool would return a value of 4 in this case.
This function is fundamental in number theory and cryptography. Its results are essential for algorithms related to modular arithmetic, public-key cryptography systems like RSA, and various problems involving prime factorization. Historically, the totient function has been crucial for developing encryption methods and understanding the distribution of prime numbers.
