Word Problems 

Copyright ©2008 by Paul Niquette.  All rights reserved..

unique puzzle entitled "The Secret Code" is making the rounds -- rather exponentiating itself by e-mail all over the worldwide web accompanied by a password-protected spreadsheet. 
 
A man wanted to get into his work building, but he had forgotten his 5-digit numerical code. However, he did remember five clues: 
  • The fifth number plus the third number equals fourteen.
  • The fourth number is one more than the second number.
  • The first number is one less than twice the second number.
  • The second number plus the third number equals ten.
  • The sum of all five numbers is 30.
What were the five numbers, and in what order?

The password, of course, is the solution to the puzzle.  The spreadsheet lists the names of previous solvers.  Each new solver is invited to enter his or her name and to forward the message to friends and family.  Something of an ego-trip.  Soon enough that roster will include every netizen on the planet who enjoys solving Word Problems.

ere is a unique Puzzle with a Purpose, offering an ego-trip -- even without the spreadsheet.  A woman wanted to log onto her work computer, but she had forgotten her ten-digit numerical pass-code. However, she did remember ten clues: 
 

  1. The fifth number is the sum of the seventh and eighth.
  2. The tenth is the difference between seventh and eighth.
  3. The third number is the product of the seventh and eighth.
  4. The seventh number is twice the ratio of seventh to eighth. 
  5. The second is the seventh raised to the power of the eighth.
  6. The first is the difference between the second and tenth.
  7. The eighth number is the sixth less the fifth number.
  8. The ninth number equals the first less twice the fourth.
  9. The sixth number is one less than twice the fourth number. 
  10. The fourth is the eighth raised to the power of the eighth.

 
What were the ten numbers, and in what order?

GO TO SOLUTION PAGE