Solve the Pattern: 2, 4 -> 20, 3, 9 -> 90, 1, 7 -> ?

Published on September 8, 2024

Question

Answer

Let’s break down the pattern in this puzzle.
  • Observation: It seems like the numbers at the top are being combined in some way to produce the number below.
  • First Example (2, 4 -> 20):
    • If we multiply the two numbers: 2 * 4 = 8. This isn’t 20.
    • If we add the two numbers and then multiply by 2: (2 + 4) * 2 = 12. This isn’t 20 either.
    • If we square the sum of the two numbers: (2 + 4)^2 = 6^2 = 36. Still not 20.
    • If we add the squares of the two numbers: 2^2 + 4^2 = 4 + 16 = 20. This works!
  • Second Example (3, 9 -> 90):
    • Let’s test our theory from the first example: 3^2 + 9^2 = 9 + 81 = 90. It works again!
  • Applying the Pattern (1, 7 -> ?):
    • Following the pattern, we should square the numbers and add them: 1^2 + 7^2 = 1 + 49 = 50.
Answer: The missing number is **50 © **.