mediummath

How can you make the following true by changing a single line? 5+5+5=550

Add a line to make the first + a 4 545+5=550

Why this works

This riddle plays with the visual representation of numbers and mathematical symbols. By adding a single line to change the first plus sign (+) into a 4, you transform the equation from 5 + 5 + 5 = 550 into 545 + 5 = 550. This clever manipulation not only makes the equation valid but also highlights how a simple change can significantly alter the meaning!

Common Wrong Answers

“Change the 5 to a 4”

Changing a 5 to a 4 does not solve the equation; it alters the numbers rather than changing the operation.

“Remove the last 5”

Removing the last 5 would result in 5 + 5 = 550, which is still incorrect and does not satisfy the riddle's requirement of changing a single line.

“Change the equal sign to a plus”

Changing the equal sign to a plus would create an equation that is still mathematically incorrect, as it would read '5 + 5 + 5 + 5', which does not equal 550.

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