Why Is This Childhood Maths Problem So Hard to Solve?

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A childhood maths problem has resurfaced, challenging both the original poster and their college peers, who have struggled to find a solution. The problem, initially given to a class of 12-year-olds, is described as either deceptively simple or complex, leading to significant time investment without resolution. The poster expresses a strong desire to understand the solution and what might be overlooked. The discussion highlights the enduring difficulty of certain mathematical challenges, regardless of age or educational level. The community is engaged and eager to uncover the solution to this perplexing problem.
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Hello, currently I am studying at A-level at my local college.

I was recently going through some of my old childhood school things and found a maths challenge booklet that was given to my class when I was 12 for homework. The questions for a 12 year old were nice and challenging but not impossible apart from the last one, which is why I remember it. At the time I don't think anyone got it right. I had another look at it and still could not work it out. I ended up taking it to college and seeing what some of other maths students thought and a whole group of us wasted a lot of time attempting to work it out.

It is either deceptively simple or deceptively complex. Either way we really want to find out how it is done and what we are missing.

Oldmathsquestion.jpg


Thank you
 
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Sorry I just realized that I put this in the wrong section and it should probably be in the General Math section. Could a mod move it please.
 
Wow...I don't see a pattern either...very interested in how you would solve something like this
 

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