IMC 2013 Q6
6. Which of the following has the least value?
- A 10 − 01
- B 21 − 12
- C 32 − 23
- D 43 − 34
- E 54 − 45
Intermediate Mathematical Challenge 2013, Question 6. © UK Mathematics Trust. Original paper on ukmt.org.uk
Answer: E 54 − 45
In order, the values of the expressions given are: 1 − 0 = 1; 2 − 1 = 1; 9 − 8 = 1; 64 − 81 = −17; 625 − 1024 = −399.
Solution © UK Mathematics Trust, from the IMC 2013 solutions. Longer versions with investigations: Solutions and investigations (PDF).