A Math Puzzle That Set Social Media Abuzz
A new math challenge is currently circulating on social media, testing users with an intriguing numeric grid. The objective? To find the missing number in what appears to be a simple… yet deceptive layout.
The Allure of Number Puzzles
Puzzles, especially those based on mathematics, have long been a favorite pastime for curious minds. They not only test our logic and problem-solving ability but also sharpen our concentration and mental agility.
Whether you solve them during a tea break or share them with friends, these challenges serve as a genuine workout for your brain.
The Puzzle That Stumped the Internet
This new IQ test takes the form of a grid of numbers arranged in circles. The first three rows follow a straightforward progression:
- Row 1: 1, 2, 3
- Row 2: 4, 5, 6
- Row 3: 7, 8, 9
But the fourth row is perplexing:
- Row 4: 27, 38, ??
The question posed is clear: “IQ Test: Can you solve this challenge?”
With no clues or hints, only your logic and numerical instincts can guide you to the correct answer.
Another Viral Math Challenge
This isn’t the first time a math puzzle has gone viral.
Another example had already caused confusion:
The Appeal of Logical Challenges
Whether it’s a logical riddle or a mathematical challenge, these brain-teasers continue to captivate. They are not just entertaining: they encourage critical thinking, stimulate the brain, and provide unique satisfaction when one arrives at the solution.
So, if you love challenges and want to put your brain to the test, try solving these puzzles. Who knows?
You might just surprise yourself.
Here Is the Solution We Found:
Given Grid:
- Row 1: 1, 2, 3
- Row 2: 4, 5, 6
- Row 3: 7, 8, 9
- Row 4: 27, 38, ??
We are looking for the logic leading to 27, 38, ?? based on the first three rows.
Step 1: Observe the Positions
Let’s arrange the numbers in a table for better visualization:
Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
---|---|---|
1 | 2 | 3 |
4 | 5 | 6 |
7 | 8 | 9 |
27 | 38 | ?? |
Step 2: Examining Column 1
Column 1 = 1, 4, 7
The sum is:
1 + 4 + 7 = 12
However, in row 4, we have 27 in the first position. So, it’s not a simple sum.
Let’s test a pattern:
1 (row 1)
4 (row 2)
7 (row 3)
1 → 4 → 7: progression of +3
This doesn’t provide a direct answer.
Now let’s try:
Column 1: 1, 4, 7
Let’s concatenate: 1 4 7 → 147?
Not 27.
However:
1 × 1 = 1
4 × 2 = 8
7 × 3 = 21
Then: 1 + 8 + 21 = 30 → still not 27.
Step 3: Test Row by Row
Let’s examine row by row.
Row 1: 1, 2, 3 → gives 27 below (row 4, first value)
Let’s try this:
1 + 2 + 3 = 6
1 × 2 × 3 = 6
(no clear link to 27)
And if we do:
1 × 2 = 2
2 × 3 = 6
1 × 3 = 3
→ Not conclusive.
However, let’s look at this:
1×1 = 1
2×2 = 4
3×3 = 9
→ 1 + 4 + 9 = 14
Still not helpful. Let’s try something else.
Step 4: What if Each Row 4 is the Sum of Columns?
Let’s see:
Column 1:
1 + 4 + 7 = 12
Column 2:
2 + 5 + 8 = 15
Column 3:
3 + 6 + 9 = 18
Now:
Row 4:
1st box = 27
2nd = 38
3rd = ??
Let’s examine the correspondence between the sum of columns and the numbers in the 4th row:
- Column 1 → sum = 12, but given value = 27
- Column 2 → sum = 15, but value = 38
Now:
27 – 12 = 15
38 – 15 = 23
→ Perhaps a constant to add? But here 15, then 23… it varies.
New idea:
Let’s look at this possible formula:
(Row 1 × Row 3) + Row 2
By column:
Column 1:
(1 × 7) + 4 = 7 + 4 = 11
≠ 27 → No.
Step 5: Let’s Try:
1st column:
(1 + 4) × 2 = 5 × 2 = 10
Still wrong.
Step 6: Let’s Try This Reasoning:
Look at column 1:
1 + 4 + 7 = 12 → we have 27
If 12 → 27, it means we added 15.
Column 2:
2 + 5 + 8 = 15 → we have 38
38 – 15 = 23
Column 3:
3 + 6 + 9 = 18
If the logic is:
Column 1 → +15
Column 2 → +23
Column 3 → +??
If we follow the pattern:
+15, +23 → progression +8
Therefore, +31.
18 + 31 = 49
Final Possible Answer: 49
Summary of the Reasoning
- Add the numbers in each column (across the first three rows).
- Add a growing number:
- Column 1 → +15
- Column 2 → +23
- Column 3 → +31
(Progression of +8)
- 3 + 6 + 9 = 18
18 + 31 = 49
And remember, if you don’t want to continue having fun with tests and challenges, definitely don’t click here