Honors problem 2

Question

Use the numbers 1,2,3,4 and 5 to equal 3.16 and use each number once _._-_.__=3.16

Answer 1

1+2+.5-.34=3.16

5-2+.3-.14=3.16

Answer 2

^{Hello Nick,} 

 

Although I don't know where this problem originates or the solution style they would desire, I would approach this problem as a logical puzzle, like a sudoku-ish thing. 

 

Given you are only allowed to use each number once, the combinations are limited; so, you could in theory brute force the answer, try a combination, check, repeat until solution is found. 

 

However, due to the nature of the problem, you know certain properties about the two numbers that will allow us to guess and check intelligently. 

 

For example, the first number must be greater than the 2nd number. So, 1, 2, or 3 cannot go in the first slot for the first number. Now we know that either 5 or 4 must be in the first slot. 

 

I would continue this logic through the problem. 

Answer 3

0.16 = 16/100 = 4/25 = 4/5²

 

3.16 = 3 + 0.16

 

       = (1)(3) + 4/5²