Unravel the meaning of the variables to find numerical answers

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    Numerical Variables
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a riddle involving the unraveling of variables to find numerical answers. Participants are tasked with solving for the variables "s," "t," "r," and "u" based on a set of equations. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and exploration of potential solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a set of equations and challenges others to find values for the variables, noting that zero is not a solution.
  • Another participant suggests that all variables can equal zero, but this is contested.
  • A subsequent reply emphasizes that none of the values can equal zero and that no values should repeat exactly.
  • One participant proposes a solution where all variables equal one, questioning if this aligns with the requirement of non-repeating values.
  • Another participant offers a different set of values involving complex numbers: s = 1, t = -1, u = i, r = -i, suggesting that these values also satisfy the equations.
  • A later reply acknowledges the correctness of the complex number solution and notes that the complex values can be inter-transposed while still making sense.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the solutions, as multiple competing views are presented regarding the values of the variables. Some propose real numbers while others suggest complex numbers, and there is disagreement on the interpretation of the requirement that values should not repeat.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes limitations regarding the interpretation of the variables and the conditions under which solutions are valid, particularly concerning the non-repetition of values and the exclusion of zero as a solution.

AtaraxiaAle
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This is a riddle that has proven to be a stumper.
At least, the people I have asked...

The task is to unravel the meaning of the variables to find numerical answers.
Can you do it?

Solve for "s", "t", "r", and "u:" *Edit* When Zero is not a solution. *Edit*

[tex] s * s & = & & s \\[/tex]

[tex] s * t & = & & t \\ [/tex]

[tex] t * r & = & & u \\[/tex]

[tex] u * u & = & & t \\[/tex]

[tex] u * r & = & & s \\[/tex]

[tex] r * r & = & & t \\[/tex]
 
Last edited:
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s=0
t=0
u=0
r=0
 


Ah, yes, this is true; but not exactly as complicated as it truly is.

I say this, and I should have said this before, because none of these values equal zero.

And! No values "repeat" themselves, exactly.

Try again
 


s=1
t=1
u=1
r=1

Or is that what you mean by "No values repeat themselves, exactly."
 


s = 1
t = -1
u = i
r = -i
 


ha-Ha! Yes, that is the correct set of answers "Moo"!

But you can also notice that i and -i can be inter-transposed and still make sense.

Good job.

Yea, if they are all ones then it works as well, but I thought that
was too easy so I said that they shouldn't repeat.
 

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