The Snout for Numbers: A Mathematical Puzzle

AI Summary

A mathematical puzzle is presented where a number N starting with 4, when moved to the end, creates a new number that is a quarter of N. The puzzle challenges readers to find the lowest possible value of N.

The Puzzle

Today's offering is for fans of the number 4. It's a cute puzzle that offers up its solution in an elegant way.

Nose to Tail Mathematics

Nose to tail mathematics

There is a number N beginning with 4 such that moving the 4 to the end of it creates a new number that is a quarter of N.

In other words N is of the form 4[…], where […] is a sequence of digits, and N ÷ 4 = […]4

What is the lowest possible value of N?

The Challenge

HINT. Suppose that N has two digits. If you can't find a solution, suppose that N has three digits. Repeat until the answer pops out.

The Source

Source: Moscow Mathematical Olympiad 1983, via @mathematicsproblems and Kevin Gately