June 21, 2025

Math Puzzle: Correct the Matchstick Equation

By Heinrich Hemme

Move a matchstick to create a correct equation.

Graphic shows eleven matchsticks arranged to show the equation “six minus three equals two” using Roman numerals for the numbers. — Spektrum der Wissenschaft, restyled by Amanda Montañez

Graphic shows the eleven matchsticks in the same configuration except that the minus symbol has been rotated to show a slash so that the new equation reads “six divided by three equals two.” — Spektrum der Wissenschaft, restyled by Amanda Montañez

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This puzzle originally appeared in Spektrum der Wissenschaft and was reproduced with permission.

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