The Puzzles of Nobuyuki Yoshigahara (Problem Books in Mathematics)

This book convenes a selection of 200 mathematical puzzles with original solutions, all celebrating the inquisitive and inspiring spirit of Nobuyuki “Nob” Yoshigahara – a legend in the worldwide community of mathematical and mechanical puzzles. A graduate from the Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yoshigahara invented numerous mechanical puzzles and published over 80 puzzle books. In 2003, he was honored with the Sam Loyd Award, given by the Association for Games & Puzzles International to individuals who have been made a significant contribution to the world of mechanical puzzles. In this work, the reader will find some of the most ingenious puzzles ever created, organized in ten categories: Logic, matchstick, maze, algorithmic, combinatorial, digital, number, geometric, dissection, and others. Some of them could rivalry with those found at Mathematical Olympiads tests around the globe; others will work as powerful brain teasers for those with an interest in problem-solving. Math teachers, curious students of any age and even experienced mathematicians with a taste for the fun in science can find in this book unconventional paths to develop their problem-solving skills in a creative way. Preface 7 Preface 8 Preface 9 Comments 12 Andy Liu 12 Table of Contents 14 Chapter One 15 Introductory Puzzles 15 Solutions 17 Chapter Two 19 Matchstick Puzzles 19 Solutions 21 Chapter Three 27 Maze Puzzles 27 Solutions 37 Chapter Four 47 Algorithmic Puzzles 47 Solutions 53 Chapter Five 63 Combinatorial Puzzles 63 Solutions 69 Chapter Six 77 Digital Puzzles 77 Solutions 83 Chapter Seven 93 Number Puzzles 93 Solutions 100 Chapter Eight 113 Geometric Puzzles 113 Solutions 121 Chapter Nine 133 Dissection Puzzles 133 Solutions 144 Chapter Ten 165 Other Puzzles 165 Solutions 173 Appendix : Nob and Martin 181