Matchstick Puzzle | Puzzles for Interview - Interview Preparation PDF Download

Problem Statement

The challenge is to arrange 6 identical matchsticks in such a way that they form 4 equilateral triangles. An equilateral triangle is a triangle in which all three sides are equal in length.

Solution

To solve this puzzle, we need to think in three dimensions, rather than trying to create the triangles on a flat plane. Follow these steps to arrange the 6 matchsticks:
1. Take three matchsticks and form an equilateral triangle on the surface.
2. Now, take the fourth matchstick and place it upright on one of the vertices of the formed triangle.
3. Take the fifth matchstick and place it on the top of the upright matchstick, making it touch the two other vertices of the base triangle.
4. Finally, place the sixth matchstick on the top of the upright matchstick, connecting the remaining vertex of the base triangle with the vertex of the triangle created in step 3.
By following these steps, we have created a three-dimensional tetrahedron shape consisting of 4 equilateral triangles with 6 matchsticks.

Conclusion

The solution to the matchstick puzzle lies in thinking beyond a flat surface and considering three-dimensional arrangements. By constructing a tetrahedron, we can successfully create 4 equilateral triangles using only 6 matchsticks. This puzzle highlights the importance of exploring different perspectives and approaches when solving problems.