A seemingly straightforward maths puzzle has exploded on Reddit, creating a fierce online debate and proving that even the simplest equations can become a major head-scratcher.
The problem, which has been shared thousands of times, presents users with a string of additions and asks for the solution to a final sum. Its simplicity is precisely what makes it so contentious, with the online community splitting into distinct camps, each convinced their answer is the correct one.
The Riddle That Divided The Internet
Posted on the popular r/puzzles subreddit, the puzzle is presented as follows:
8 + 2 = 16106
5 + 4 = 2091
9 + 6 = 54153
7 + 5 = ?
At first glance, it appears to be a standard arithmetic problem. However, commenters were quick to realise that conventional maths rules don't apply here, sending them down a rabbit hole of logical reasoning.
Cracking The Code: The Two Solutions
The confusion stems from the fact that the puzzle requires lateral thinking. It's not a simple addition; it's a pattern that needs to be deciphered. After extensive discussion, two primary solutions emerged from the Reddit thread.
The First Method
One group of solvers believes the answer is 35122. Their logic breaks down the result into three separate parts derived from the two initial numbers:
- Multiply the two numbers: 7 x 5 = 35
- Add the two numbers: 7 + 5 = 12
- Subtract the two numbers: 7 - 5 = 2
These three results—35, 12, and 2—are then combined to form the final answer: 35122.
The Second Method
The other camp arrived at a different answer: 35122. They used a similar but distinct approach:
- Multiply the two numbers: 7 x 5 = 35
- Multiply the first number by the second number minus one: 7 x 4 = 28
- Add the two results: 35 + 28 = 63, then subtract the second number: 63 - 5 = 58
This method, however, did not consistently work across all the given examples, leading most to agree that the first solution is the intended one.
Why This Puzzle Is So Addictive
The puzzle's genius lies in its ability to engage a wide audience. It's accessible enough for children to attempt yet complex enough to stump adults, making it a perfect storm for viral engagement. It taps into a love for logic, pattern recognition, and the satisfying 'aha!' moment of solving a tricky problem.
Whether you're a maths whiz or simply enjoy a good brain teaser, this Reddit riddle is a fantastic test of logical reasoning. So, which answer did you get?
