October 2023
Problem of the Month
How Old are the Daughters?
Submitted by K. Sengupta
The socialite Amelia said to fellow socialite Bedelia, "I have three daughters. Can you figure out the ages of each of them knowing that the sum of their ages is 11?"
"That is not enough information," replied Bedelia.
"The product of their ages is either 16 years less or 16 years more than your age," added Amelia.
"Still not enough information." replied Bedelia after careful thought.
"My oldest daughter is learning to play chess." said Amelia.
Bedelia was then immediately able to determine the ages of Amelia's three daughters.
What are their ages?