What 3 Positive Numbers Give the Same Result When Multiplied and Added Together? is a neat maths riddle. Grab a pen, try a few numbers, then tap Show Answer.
Need a hint?
Try the three smallest whole numbers.
Answer and explanation (spoiler!)
The answer is 1, 2 and 3.
Add them: 1 + 2 + 3 = 6. Multiply them: 1 × 2 × 3 = 6. Both give exactly the same answer.
It works because multiplying by 1 changes nothing, and 2 × 3 happens to equal 1 + 2 + 3. It’s the only set of three different positive whole numbers that does this.
Difficulty: Medium · Best for: ages 9 and up
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FAQ
Is there another answer?
Not with three different positive whole numbers. If numbers can repeat, there are no other small ones that work either; 1, 2, 3 is the famous answer.
Is this good for maths class?
Yes. It’s a great starter that gets students testing numbers and checking their work.