Problem:
A calculator has a squaring key which replaces the current number displayed with its square. For example, if the display is and the key is depressed, then the display becomes . If the display reads , how many times must you depress the key to produce a displayed number greater than
Answer Choices:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Solution:
The next four numbers displayed are , and . Thus is exceeded on the fourth depression of the key.
Answer: .
The problems on this page are the property of the MAA's American Mathematics Competitions