Solving Brainteasers with Dice and Graphs

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion presents two brainteasers involving dice and graph equations. The first challenge requires calculating the number of combinations of four colored dice (red, yellow, orange, purple) that yield a product of 36, with a note that a blue four is distinct from a red four. The second challenge involves finding the area enclosed by the graph defined by the equation |y-x|+|y| = 2, with specific conditions for the variable x. These problems are accessible to individuals aged 13 and above, regardless of their mathematical background.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic probability and combinatorics
  • Familiarity with factorial calculations
  • Knowledge of graphing equations and absolute value functions
  • Basic skills in geometry for area calculation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research combinatorial methods for calculating outcomes with multiple dice
  • Learn about absolute value equations and their graphical representations
  • Explore techniques for finding areas enclosed by complex curves
  • Study factorials and their applications in probability problems
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, educators, students, and puzzle enthusiasts looking to enhance their problem-solving skills through engaging brainteasers.

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Some interesting brainteasers

Starter

Four dice colored red, yellow, orange, purple are rolled. In how many ways can the product of the numbers (assuming a blue four is different from a red four) so that the numbers equal 36?

I used factorials for this one, but it will be interesting to see how you attempt your answer.

Head Scratcher

Can you find the area of the region enclosed by the graph who equation is |y-x|+|y| = 2. (x takes the value of x if x\geq0 and takes the value of -x if x<0)

These questions are designed so that anybody above the age of about 13 can answer them without much mathematical experience.

If this is a success then I will reveal the answer this time next week and come up with a new one [MONDAY 28TH DECEMBER 2009]
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
We have a subforum devoted to brainteasers:

https://www.physicsforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=33
 


Thanks, I didn't see, but now I know.
 

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