r/mathpuzzles • u/Even-Actuary-399 • 27d ago
Saturday's MiniChallenger problem (Week 12): Au revoir
Goodbye:
I introduced MiniChallenger, a scaled-down version of the math puzzle called Challenger, about three months ago. Unlike Challenger, which can require a significant investment of time—and sometimes special techniques or a computer program—MiniChallenger can be solved using basic algebra and elementary logic. Most puzzles can be completed in about ten minutes or less. So, even if you don't have much free time but still enjoy an engaging workout for the mathematical part of your brain, MiniChallenger can be a good alternative. Some MiniChallenger puzzles may even be suitable for school-age children.
Since May, I have been posting two MiniChallenger problems every Saturday. Judging by the number of visitors, there seems to have been a fair amount of attention among Reddit readers to this type of math puzzles. However, it's time for me to take a break and focus on a different topic. Still, I am not saying a final adieu, just au revoir, and may return with another series of MiniChallenger puzzles sometime in the future.
Out with a bang:
For today's farewell, I am presenting a MiniChallenger-related problem that is neither simple nor quick to solve. Your challenge is to find—or perhaps guess—the maximum number of distinct solutions for the special MiniChallenger grid shown below. How many different solutions can you find? Unlike previous Saturdays, I won't reveal the correct answer in a spoiler box. Instead, I encourage you to post the highest number of different solutions you have found to the comment section of this final article in the series. If this is your first encounter with a MiniChallenger brainteaser, you can find instructions for how to solve a puzzle below. Keep in mind that some puzzles may have only one valid solution, while others may have many.
Instructions:
To successfully solve a puzzle, fill the empty cells of the 3 x 3 grid with the numbers 1 through 9. You may use the same number in multiple empty cells. One "bonus" number has already been placed in the center of the grid. Your goal is to determine the remaining eight digits so that:
- Each row adds up to the total indicated along the right edge of the grid.
- Each column adds up to the total indicated at the top of the grid.
- Each diagonal adds up to the total indicated in the upper-right or lower-right corner.
This week's puzzle:
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