Move One Coin to Make Two Rows of Five
The puzzle goes like this: There are 10 coins arranged in two parallel rows of five. You can move just one coin to make two equal rows of five. How do you do it?
This brainteaser may seem simple, but it’s actually quite tricky. If you’ve been puzzling over it for a while without success, don’t despair. We’ll provide you with the solution and explain the logic behind it.
The Magic Move
The key to solving this puzzle is to think outside the box. The solution involves moving a coin from one row to the other, but not in the way you might expect.
To create two rows of five, take the coin from the end of one of the rows and place it on top of the other row, perpendicular to the other coins. This will create two stacks of five coins, each representing a row.
Why Does It Work?
The reason this solution works is because it doesn’t violate the condition of moving only one coin. The coin is still touching the table, and it is still in contact with the other coins in its original row. However, by placing it perpendicularly, it effectively creates a new row of five coins.
This clever solution demonstrates the importance of lateral thinking in solving puzzles. Sometimes, the best way to solve a problem is to approach it from a different perspective and think outside the traditional boundaries.
Puzzle Variations
There are several variations of this puzzle with different starting configurations and numbers of coins. Here are a few examples:
- Replace the two rows of five coins with three rows of three coins.
- Use different numbers of coins, such as 12 coins arranged in four rows of three.
- Limit the number of moves allowed, such as solving the puzzle with only two moves.
These variations add an extra layer of challenge to the puzzle and can be a fun way to test your problem-solving skills.
Expert Tips for Puzzle Solving
Here are some tips from experienced puzzlers to help you approach and solve puzzles effectively:
- Read the instructions carefully and make sure you understand the goal.
- Take your time and don’t rush the process. Puzzle solving requires patience and attention to detail.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different approaches and solutions.
- Break down complex puzzles into smaller steps and focus on solving one part at a time.
- Seek help from others or online resources if you get stuck.
By following these tips, you can improve your problem-solving skills and become more proficient at solving puzzles of all kinds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the minimum number of coins required to create two rows of five?
A: The minimum number of coins required is 10, as seen in the original puzzle.
Q: Can I create two rows of five using only one move?
A: Yes, the solution we provided creates two rows of five with just one move.
Q: How does the solution work if the coin is no longer touching the table?
A: The coin is still touching the table, but perpendicularly. It is still in contact with the other coins, so it is still part of the same row.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed this dive into the world of coin puzzles. If you’re looking for more brainteasers and puzzles to challenge your mind, be sure to explore our website. We have an extensive collection of puzzles for all levels, from beginners to experienced puzzlers.
Are you interested in learning more about puzzle-solving techniques or exploring different types of puzzles? If so, leave a comment below and let us know. We’re always happy to provide additional information and resources to help you enhance your problem-solving skills.
