What is the next sequence in this classic problem?

  • Thread starter CaptainQuaser
  • Start date
In summary, the pattern in "What comes next 1 11 21 1211" is that each number is a description of the previous number, with the next number being described as "one 1", "two 1s", "one 2 and one 1", and so on. There is no specific mathematical formula for generating the next number, as the sequence is based on a pattern of describing the previous number. The sequence continues infinitely, so there is no limit to the number of numbers in the sequence. The numbers 1, 11, 21, and 1211 in the sequence represent the number of times a specific digit appears in the previous number. While this sequence may not have a direct real
  • #1
CaptainQuaser
168
0
What comes next

1
11
21
1211
111221
312211
12112221
1112213211

ect
 
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  • #2
CaptainQuaser said:
What comes next

1
11
21
1211
111221
312211
12112221
1112213211

ect

one, one one, two ones, one two and then one one, one one and then one two and then two ones

so the next must be 312211131221
 
  • #3
hi captain, I wrote my answer in white, in the preceding post, so as not to spoil it. run the mouse over it and it will show up. thanks for the puzzle!
 
  • #4
Conway

-- AI
 
  • #5
Good show, I really like that puzzle.
 
  • #6
1
11
21
1211
111221
312211
13112221 *
1113213211 *

Not sure how to edit, but there two lines have been corrected, oops
 
  • #7
the classic problem is ressurected ...
 

1. What is the pattern in "What comes next 1 11 21 1211"?

The pattern is that each number is a description of the previous number. For example, 1 is described as "one 1", so the next number is 11. 11 is described as "two 1s", so the next number is 21. 21 is described as "one 2 and one 1", so the next number is 1211.

2. Is there a mathematical formula for generating the next number in the sequence?

No, there is not a specific mathematical formula for generating the next number. The sequence is based on a pattern of describing the previous number.

3. How many numbers are in the sequence?

The sequence continues infinitely, so there is no limit to the number of numbers in the sequence.

4. What is the significance of the numbers 1, 11, 21, and 1211 in the sequence?

The numbers represent the number of times a specific digit appears in the previous number. For example, 11 has two 1s, 21 has one 2 and one 1, and so on.

5. Is there a real-world application for this sequence?

While this sequence may seem abstract, it has been used in some coding and programming challenges to test problem-solving skills. It also serves as a good exercise for pattern recognition and critical thinking.

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