Math whizzes-We need your help

[bheila]

My son has a math problem that I can't figure out. Please help me

Juanita presented a problem to Karl. "If you can solve this," said Juanita. "I'll buy you the ice-cream cone of your choice! Here's the problem: Show how one half of five is four." Karl got his ice-cream cone. What was his answer?

If you know the answer, could you please try to explain it the best you can

 

[The Poultry Peanut]

Quote:
1 half of 5 is 2.5 or 1/4 maby thats it..

 

[WriterofWords]

That is more critical thinking than math:

This is actually more of a riddle, involving two different number systems. The first is actually spelling out 5.
FIVE
Now take away HALF the letters, specifially the F and E. That leaves you with IV which in roman numerals is 4! So, half of 5 is four!

 

[ke_ben]

Half of FIVE is roman numeral IV.

 

[ke_ben]

Missed it by that much!

 

[jennh]

Maybe you divide the 5 in half, and then divide that into quarters, or 4?

Jen (almost ashamed to put my name in case I really look stupid)

Quote:

 

[bheila]

Quote:

Whaaa? I never would've thought about it that way.

 

[The Poultry Peanut]

Quote:
Ooooo! I get it!

 

[Cindiloohoo]

Quote:
NM

 

[bheila]

Jen-How do you think I feel? I posted the question

Cindiloohoo-That is exactly word for word the problem. He's learning ratios