Yesterday’s Math Problem:
A papaya tree was planted 2 years ago. It increases at the rate of 20% every year. If at present, the height of the tree is 540 cm, what was it when the tree was planted?
1] 432 cm
2] 324 cm
3] 375 cm
4] 400 cm
Answer:
3] 375 cm
Solution: Take .20 if 375 which equals 75. By the end of the first year, the tree was 450 cm high. Now take .20 of 450 which equals 90. Add 90 to9 450 and you have 540 – the height of the tree now.
Today’s Mind Twister:
Five racing drivers, Alan, Bob, Chris, Don, and Eugene, enter into a contest that consists of 6 races. The results of all six races are listed below:
- Bob always finishes ahead of Chris.
- Alan finishes either first or last.
- Eugene finishes either first or last.
- There are no ties in any race.
- Every driver finishes each race.
- In each race, two points are awarded for a fifth place finish, four points for fourth, six points for third, eight points for second, and ten points for first.
If Frank enters the third race and finishes behind Chris and Don, which of the following must be true of that race?
1] Eugene finishes first.
2] Alan finishes sixth.
3] Don finishes second.
4] Frank finishes fifth.
5] Chris finishes third.