List

Mathematical Wizardry

All of the tricks in this feature seem magical, but it's mathematics that makes them work.  Figure out the maths behind the tricks, and amaze your friends and family with your mathematical wizardry!

 

The Number Jumbler
problem
Favourite

The Number Jumbler

Age
7 to 14
Challenge level
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The Number Jumbler can always work out your chosen symbol. Can you work out how?
Your number is...
problem
Favourite

Your number is...

Age
7 to 14
Challenge level
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Think of a number and follow the machine's instructions... I know what your number is! Can you explain how I know?
Your number was...
problem
Favourite

Your number was...

Age
11 to 14
Challenge level
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Think of a number and follow my instructions. Tell me your answer, and I'll tell you what you started with! Can you explain how I know?
Twisting and Turning
problem
Favourite

Twisting and Turning

Age
11 to 14
Challenge level
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Take a look at the video and try to find a sequence of moves that will untangle the ropes.
More Twisting and Turning
problem
Favourite

More Twisting and Turning

Age
11 to 16
Challenge level
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It would be nice to have a strategy for disentangling any tangled ropes...
All tangled up
problem

All tangled up

Age
14 to 18
Challenge level
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Can you tangle yourself up and reach any fraction?
Mysterious 6174
problem

Mysterious 6174

Age
14 to 18
Challenge level
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Find out about the mystery of 6174 in this article from Plus Magazine.