Brain Teasers
Pen & Paper V
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Other brain teasers don't fit into any other category, so they can be unique and challenging.Other
On a sheet of paper, write the following (incorrect) equation:
1 2 x 1 6 = 4 3 2
The challenge: Draw four lines, three on the left side of the equation and one on the right, to make the equation valid.
You cannot:
Change the = into a not-equal sign.
Manipulate the paper in any way.
Draw any curves.
Draw any dots or points.
1 2 x 1 6 = 4 3 2
The challenge: Draw four lines, three on the left side of the equation and one on the right, to make the equation valid.
You cannot:
Change the = into a not-equal sign.
Manipulate the paper in any way.
Draw any curves.
Draw any dots or points.
Hint
Try to find a solution that does not involve the use of addition or subtraction.Answer
On the right side of the equation, draw a diagonal line between the 4 and the 3, such that the right side of the equation is 4/32. On the left side of the equation, draw an identical line between the first 1 and the 2, and draw a small 7 to the upper-right of the 2.You should have:
1 / 2^7 x 1 6 = 4 / 3 2 (In this case, the ^ indicates that the 7 is an exponent.)
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Comments
Possibly a simpler alternative would have been to make the 1/2 on the left, as you did, then draw a line over the whole expression on the left, and a "1" over the line.
Not sure I can effectively type this in here, but I'll try; you likely know what I mean. It leaves on the left:
1
____________________
1 / 2 * 16
And treat the right hand side exactly as you did: 4 / 32.
This is simpler as it evokes no exponents, and no newly constructed numerals.
Not sure I can effectively type this in here, but I'll try; you likely know what I mean. It leaves on the left:
1
____________________
1 / 2 * 16
And treat the right hand side exactly as you did: 4 / 32.
This is simpler as it evokes no exponents, and no newly constructed numerals.
I arrived at the same conclusion as described above.
Another possibility is: +2 x 1/16 = 4/32
in which the "+" is made by crossing the original initial "1" on the left side.
Good teaser!
Another possibility is: +2 x 1/16 = 4/32
in which the "+" is made by crossing the original initial "1" on the left side.
Good teaser!
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