Document Type

Post-Print

Publication Date

5-2005

Abstract

We consider an elementary mathematical puzzle known as a "difference box" in terms of a discrete map from R4 to R4 or, canonically, from a subset of the first quadrant of R2 into itself. We find the map's unique canonical fixed point and answer the general question of how many iterations a given "difference box" takes to reach zero.

Identifier

10.2307/30037493

Publisher

Taylor & Francis Ltd.

Publication Information

American Mathematical Monthly

Included in

Mathematics Commons

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