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Sept. 15, 2004
Math Golf
You are given three numbers. Your goal is to include the three numbers in an equation, using a combination of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, exponents, and roots (along with parentheses, if you wish). You may use each number only once, but you may use the three numbers in any order. However, you can't combine digits. For example, if you were given 1, 2, and 3, you can't use the number 12 or 23 or any other such combination in your equation.
Your score is how far your answer is from the target number (absolute values only, no negative numbers).
For each set of three numbers (a hole), write down your equation, your answer, and your score. Send us your best shots using the form below. We'll post a selection of answers.
Challenge 1:
Hole |
Scoring
Numbers |
Target |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
3 |
Bonus |
2 |
5 |
6 |
54 |
Other challenges
Based on the games MathGolf! and MathDice from ThinkFun (www.thinkfun.com). Challenges created by Todd Etter.
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Try using just addition and subtraction.
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Hole 1: 2 + 3 – 4 = 1 (Score: 0)
Hole 2: 3 + 4 – 5 = 2 (Score: 0)
Hole 3: 4 + 5 – 6 = 3 (Score: 0)
There are many other ways to reach each target number. Can you think of one?
Bonus: 26 – 5 = 59 (Score: 5)
Can you get any closer?
From Eric, 13, Eagan, MN
Hole 1: 3 – (4/2) = 1 (Score: 0)
Hole 2: 3 – (5 – 4) = 2 (Score: 0)
Hole 3: 5 – (6 – 4) = 3 (Score: 0)
BONUS: 5!/2 – 6 = 54 (Score = 0)
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