BBC Breakfast's latest Brain Test maths question has sparked a lively debate among viewers, with many offering differing opinions on the correct answer. The puzzle, created by Oxford University mathematician Dr James Munro, was unveiled on Monday's programme by hosts Jon Kay and Sarah Campbell.
The Question
The sequence presented to viewers is: 1, 2, 1, 4, 1, 2, 1, 8, 1, 2, 1, 4, 1, 2, 1, ?. The hosts provided a hint: "It's not 8 again!"
Sarah Campbell explained: "Today's puzzle is set by Dr James Munro, who is a mathematician at Oxford University so there's a clue." Jon Kay added: "James has given us a hint. It's not 8 again. That's the hint. So we know what it's not, but what could it be? We will reveal the answer on Friday."
Presenter Disagreement
The puzzle even caused disagreement among the presenters themselves. Jon revealed: "I got a text from Nina [Warhurst, fellow BBC Breakfast presenter] a couple of minutes ago who saw it and she said, 'Tell James it is eight.'" To which Jon quipped: "No, it's not eight, Nina, it's not eight. If James says it's not eight, he wants a different number."
Jon noted: "I've seen some of the answers coming in already this morning. There is disagreement, I think it's fair to say, on what the next one is." Sarah added: "Healthy disagreement. Healthy disagreement. But if you think you know what it is, maybe you'd like to explain why you think it's that as well. Get in touch in the usual way."
Viewer Reactions
Taking to social media platform X, viewers were quick to share their thoughts. One person commented: "Like being back in school #BBCBreakfast" accompanied by a happy emoji. Another joked: "Didn't get chance to write the sequence down, but I suspect I would've got it right #BBCBreakfast."
The answer to the puzzle is expected to be revealed on Friday's programme. BBC Breakfast continues at 6am on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
