Question 3
A round cake can be divided into two equal parts with one straight cut, and into three equal parts with three straight cuts. What is the smallest number of cuts needed to divide it into twelve equal parts?
Editorial task: state the source’s radial-sector convention (full diameter cuts, no moving or stacking), give its construction, and explain the scope of the minimum claim.
Original source options (retained):
(A) 4; (B) 6; (C) 8; (D) 10; (E) 12
Editorial format note: this essay examines the source wording and its assumptions. The original choices are retained for comparison.
Editorial task: state the source’s radial-sector convention (full diameter cuts, no moving or stacking), give its construction, and explain the scope of the minimum claim.
Original source options (retained):
(A) 4; (B) 6; (C) 8; (D) 10; (E) 12
Editorial format note: this essay examines the source wording and its assumptions. The original choices are retained for comparison.