How about if you use four matches to create two Xs that look like this: XX. The two Xs should touch. Then use the other two matches across the bottom and top of the Xs. This would create four equalateral triangles where each side is 1/2 the length of a matchstick.
I have another solution. 2D. Place 3 matches to form an equilateral triangle. Use the 4th match parallel to the base, bisecting the two sides. Use the 5th and 6th matches to connect the points of intersection of match 3 and the sides, to the bisector of the base. There will be bits of matches 5, 6 and 7 protruding, but inside the original equilateral triangle will be 4 congruent equilateral triangles.
A square, with an X across the middle -- obviously the four sides have to overlap a little so the arms of the X aren't short.
ReplyDeleteI guess now I can't give you a hard time for your silence!
sorry R,
ReplyDeletethose aren't equilateral...
How about if you use four matches to create two Xs that look like this: XX. The two Xs should touch. Then use the other two matches across the bottom and top of the Xs. This would create four equalateral triangles where each side is 1/2 the length of a matchstick.
ReplyDeleteA Star of David would give you six, but not precisely four...
ReplyDeleteCurses. That'll teach me to pay attention....
ReplyDeletewow - I like both Mr. Kite's and Mark's answers.
ReplyDeleteAlthough neither is what I had in mind... there's another solution out there!
I got it.
ReplyDeleteThink 3d everyone!
Very good!
ReplyDeleteI have another solution. 2D. Place 3 matches to form an equilateral triangle. Use the 4th match parallel to the base, bisecting the two sides. Use the 5th and 6th matches to connect the points of intersection of match 3 and the sides, to the bisector of the base. There will be bits of matches 5, 6 and 7 protruding, but inside the original equilateral triangle will be 4 congruent equilateral triangles.
ReplyDeletewhat if you light the matches, smoke something, and see four 3d triangles?
ReplyDeleteMark - I want a picture! My brain hurts (gumby voice)
ReplyDeleteI got it!3 sided pyramid!
ReplyDelete