From: Robert Klemme <shortcutter@...>
Date: 2010-04-01T21:56:32+09:00
Subject: Re: Ruby solve classic math problem: make 56 from four 4s

2010/3/31 Kelly Jones <kelly.terry.jones@gmail.com>:
> A classic math problem asks "using only four 4s and any
> mathematical operation, come up with the number
> 56". "4!+4!+4+4" is one of probably several answers [1].
>
> I want to write a ruby program that solves the
> generalization: "given X number of the digit Y and a
> set of permitted mathematical operations/functions, can
> you come up with the number Z?"

As long as you do not limit the number of unary operations that
program is not guaranteed to terminate - especially if there is no
solution for given X, Y and Z.  Am I missing something?

It should be interesting to see what solution strategy you are picking.

Kind regards

robert

-- 
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