536 Puzzles and Curious Problems

206 Match Puzzles

In the example given, each part is correctly of the same size and shape, and

each part contains either two stars or two crosses; but, unfortunately, only 20

matches have been used. So it is not a solution. Can you do it with 26 matches?

-------~------'------~: , :------

'+ : : .: '

:. 's. ------'

, .: I,..

I • " • I • •

, t I +' I • : ' I I t •

. , ,

~

. :~--'---'-==r=: *
' , " "
.~I , • , ••• , ____
,

505. THE THREE MATCHES

Can you place 3 matches on the table, and support the matchbox on them,
without allowing the heads of the matches to touch the table, to touch
one another, or to touch the box?

506. EQUILATERAL TRIANGLES

Here is a little puzzle for young
readers:
Place 16 matches, as shown, to form
eight equilateral triangles. Now take
away 4 matches so as to leave only
four equal triangles. No superfluous
matches or loose ends to be left.