Math Challenge Problem

The Math Challenge problem has returned to UNC's School of Mathematical Sciences! This is a problem that everyone is welcomed to try their hand at. Our goal is to have a new problem once a month.

September Challenge

Chessboard Cut-up

You have a standard 8 x 8 checkerboard and a pair of scissors. If you only cut along the lines, you can create 21 L-shaped tiles (each made up of 3 checkerboard squares - no gluing allowed). However, doing so will leave one single square left over.

The Challenge: Which of the original 64 squares could the extra, unused square be?Cut-up Chessboard art

Submit solutions to Ross 2239G or by email to oscar.levin@unco.edu. Deadline: September 28th

The best solution will be posted here and the submitter will receive a prize!

All correct solutions will be entered into an end-of-the-semester drawing for a big prize.


Previous Problems and Solutions

2012

January Challenge | Solution (by Josiah Smally)

February Challenge 1 | Solution (by Josiah Smally)

February Challenge 2

March Challenge

April Challenge

2011

Problem 1 | Solution 1

Problem 2 | Solution 2

Problem 3

 

 

Shell

Contact Information

  • School of Mathematical Sciences, University of Northern Colorado
  • Campus Box 122
  • 501 20th Street
  • Greeley, CO 80639
  • Tel: (970) 351-2820
  • Fax: (970) 351-1225