Brain Teasers
Roman Matches IV
The following equation involving Roman numerals is formed using matchsticks. The given equation is wrong. Can you correct it by moving just one matchstick? See if you can do it twice: the equation can be corrected in two different ways. Each solution must be an equation (i.e., it must contain one equals sign).
Note:
I(1) and -(minus) are each formed from one matchstick.
V(5), X(10), L(50), +(plus), and =(equals) are each two matchsticks.
C(100) is three matchsticks.
The incorrect equation is: L = L + L
Note:
I(1) and -(minus) are each formed from one matchstick.
V(5), X(10), L(50), +(plus), and =(equals) are each two matchsticks.
C(100) is three matchsticks.
The incorrect equation is: L = L + L
Hint
One solution involves an I, the other involves a C.Answer
First solution: LI = L + I or LI = I + LTake one matchstick from the bottom of either L on the right side of the equation, turn it to form a I, and add it after the L on the left side of the equation.
Second solution: L = C - L
Take the vertical match from the plus sign (changing it to a minus sign), turn it horizontally, and add it to the top of the first L on the right side of the equation, changing it to a C.
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