Mathematics Problem of the Week

Fall 2004

POW 12: Methuselah Speaks

Every one is obsessed with ages. Someone turns 40 and it’s a big deal. But turning 41 is not. All because one ends in a 0 and the other doesn’t!! Well, that’s just foolish. Change the base and change the zeros. I know someone who is 401 in one base but only 231 in another base, and the difference between the bases is only 3. How old is this person in base 10?

Due Friday, Dec 3^rd at Noon.

Solutions should be submitted to Dr. Maegan Bos’ mailbox in the Math office or sent via e-mail to mbos@stlawu.edu

Presentation counts! The prize-winning entry will be selected from all correct submissions, based on the clarity, creativity and elegance of the solution.

Look for the SLU POW on the Web at http://it.stlawu.edu/~math/activities/