You have 5 short chains of 3 links each, that you would like to connect into one long 15-link chain. To connect links, you need to cut open a link, join it with another link, and then close it.

Chain Links

What is the fewest number of links you need to cut to accomplish this?


Solution

Just 3 links, but all 3 need to be from the same original chain.

Once you cut the 3 links, each link can be used as a bridge connecting the ends of the remaining 4 chains.

Here is an illustration of how it can be done:

Chain Links Puzzle Solution

5 Comments

  1. Sorry,but I do not think you are right!
    Could you demonstrate cutting links and connecting the 5 chains!?
    Thank you!

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