Problem Solving with Magic Rectangles
Harold B. Reiter · Mathematics Teacher Learning and Teaching PK-12 · 1986
Magic squares have intrigued students of mathematics of all ages for many years. A variety of interesting techniques have been devised for constructing magic squares of various sizes, A sample 3-by-3 magic square is shown in figure 1. All the rows and columns and the two diagonals have the same sum. Recently, while discussing this topic with sophomores and juniors in my course on discrete mathematics, a student asked whether the notion of a magic rectangle was worthy of study. This article answers that question and provides a source of problems suitable for secondary school students.