Inspired from the astrological tables, here is a new puzzle of my creation designed according to the ‘Golden Number Rules’, which is reflected in the proportion of each single piece of the game. Thanks to the balanced dimensions of its pieces, this puzzle acquires some intriguing magical properties!
This “math-magical” puzzle is composed of a tray in which the pieces are assembled.
Puzzle Quadrix (aka Quirinus), © 1992, G. Sarcone.
A math-magic article I wrote for the German magazine Zeit Wissen: with the 13 triangular and square pieces (fig. 1) it is possible to form two large squares shown in fig. 2. Though the second large square has an extra piece the dimensions of the squares seem to be the same! Can you explain why this is possible?
Have a look at the picture, it looks like a “transparent” or “camouflaged” knife! I took this photo during a magician party many years ago. This illusion is based on specular reflections, it is simple but effective… In fact, when you place the blade of a knife in the middle of the tines of a fork, it will reflect other objects that are nearby.
This table is sturdy and stable. And yes, the chains are ordinary chains. Here is the tutorial that explains how to create such a miracle.
Here is an animated example:
Where does the extra skull come from? Magic? Can you explain how does this trick work?
This puzzle is available as print from my online store.
