I need extra credit………for tomorrow
What 4 positive numbers can be added and multiplied to get the same answer. The number is less than 100 and zeros don’t count. They must all be different numbers.

A+B+C+D= AxBxCxD=
Thanks a lot

-Ms. Math Trouble

Dear Ms. Math Trouble,

That’s a very difficult question. Fortunately, I earned two Bachelor’s Degrees from the University of Bethlehem. Luckily for you, one of them is in Advanced Theoretical Algebra. (The other one is in Cosmetology.)

To solve the problem, I had to first had to examine the facts that we know:

1) The four numbers are positive

2) None of the numbers is zero

3) None of the numbers is the same as any other

4) Fried chicken is delicious

5) The sum of the numbers is equal to their product

We first see that 1, 2, 3, and 4 are the only four whole numbers greater than zero whose product does not exceed 100. (1*2*3*4=24, 2*3*4*5=120)

Because these numbers do not fit the criteria (1+2+3+4=10, 1*2*3*4=24), then we have to come to the conclusion that the numbers are not whole numbers. At least not all of them.

Therefore, we know that at least some of the numbers are fractions (or decimals, if you prefer).

From that point everything is easy. Taking into account the deliciousness of fried chicken, it becomes apparent that the numbers are: 1, 2, 1.5, and 2.25.

(1+2+1.5+2.25=6.75)

(1*2*1.5*2.25=6.75)

If you think that’s impressive, you should see my cosmetology skills.

Thanks,

JC