Brain Teasers
Roman Matches I
The following equation involving Roman numerals is formed using matchsticks. The given equation is wrong. Can you correct it by moving just one matchstick? See if you can do it twice: the equation can be corrected in two different ways. Each solution must be an equation (i.e., it must contain one equals sign).
Note:
I(1) and -(minus) are each formed from one matchstick.
V(5), X(10), L(50), +(plus), and =(equals) are each two matchsticks.
C(100) is three matchsticks.
The incorrect equation is: III = II - I
Note:
I(1) and -(minus) are each formed from one matchstick.
V(5), X(10), L(50), +(plus), and =(equals) are each two matchsticks.
C(100) is three matchsticks.
The incorrect equation is: III = II - I
Hint
One solution changes the Roman numerals; the other solution doesn't.Answer
First solution: II = III - ITake one matchstick from the III on the left side of the equation and add it to the II on the right side.
Second solution: III - II = I
Take one matchstick from the equals sign (changing it to a minus sign) and place it above the minus sign (changing it to an equals sign).
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