Mathemagic - Magic Squares

Category : Maths
Magic squares are a great wonder ! Look at the Magic square No. 1.

Add the numbers in a line whichever way you like, the sum total will be 15.
For example, 8 + 1 + 6 = 15
3 + 5 + 7 = 15
1 + 5 + 9 = 15
8 + 5 + 2 = 15
Come on, check all the possibilities yourself. Don't you find it quite interesting!


Now look at the Magic Square No. 2

Add the numbers in any given line. The sum total is 65. Try all possibilities. Add horizontally, vertically and diagonally.
What did you find out? Yes, this turns to be a wonderful Magic Square!


How to construct a Magic Square? Do you like to know how you can develop such a Magic Square? Here is a simple method.
Take the instance of Magic Square No. 2.
Construct a square with 5 x 5 = 25 squares on a sheet of paper. Cut the figure on all its edges.
Write number '1' in the top mid square. Now roll the paper in such a way that the top edge meeta the bottom edge as in the picture. Move diagonally and write numbers 2 and 3.
You cannot move diagonally any further. Open the sheet and roll it again so that now the two side edges meet as shown in the second picture. Now you can continue writing numbers 4 and 5 on the other side.
When you cannot move further come down by one square and write 6. With this you can move diagonally once again and write 7 and 8. When you cannot proceed further, roll the paper so that the top and bottom edges meet again.. Continue with the same procedure. Go till number 25.

Haven't you learned how to draw a magic square! Now explain it to your friends.