Problem Solving Set #1

On February the 9th my class recieved a worksheet to finish for homework. Sadly I did not get 100%, but they say that you learn from your mistakes, so if you never make a mistake, you won't learn.

So, the question I will go over is #11. Twelve balloons are arranged in a circle as shown. Counting clockwise, every third balloon is popped. C is the first one popped. This continues around until two unpopped balloons remain. The last two remaining balloons are: (A) B, H (B) B, G (C) A, E (D) E, J (E) F, K

Starting at C, you cross out every third balloon clockwise. It should be in a pattern like this: C, F, I, L, D, H, A, G, B, K. Once you get to K, you should only have 2 balloons left: E and J!

This is the only way I know to solve this problem and it's really easy too! When I was solving it I wanted to play MASH!

So, I hope now you understand this question and it all makes sense to you !

Tower of Hanoi

Describe the strategy and the formula for the puzzle: Tower of Hanoi

When I first played this game, I used the method of guess and check ... but after I got to 5 disks and couldn't find an answer, I got incredibly bored and frustrated .

Seeing as I couldn't find a mathematical solution , I'm still currently using the lovely method of guess and check!:)

My picture above proves to you that I have beaten 5 disks and if you can't do this then maybe my next piece of information will be helpful! All I've found out so far is, if you have an odd number of rings , you have to start by putting the smallest ring on the furthest pole and the second smallest ring on the middle pole. For an even number you would need to reverse this - putting the smallest ring on the middle pole and the second smallest ring on the furthest pole.

I don't know how else I can help except, don't give up, because it's problems like this that we're happy to solve! I can tell you I was... after looking at a few hints... But anyways, DON'T GIVE UP! One of the first rules in math, you are not allowed to say "I can't," because else we'll have to kick you out!