19 Oct
2005
19 Oct
'05
9:02 a.m.
A magic square is bimagic if it remains magic after squaring each of its integers. The smallest bimagic squares using consecutive integers are known: 8x8. BUT... the smallest bimagic squares using distinct integers (= not forced to be consecutive) are still unknown! 5x5, 6x6, 7x7??? If 5x5 is impossible, a proof??? Edouard Lucas was the first to work on the subject, in 1891, easily proving that 3x3 is impossible. For more information, go to www.multimagie.com/indexengl.htm Click on "Magic squares of squares" in the left menu, then click on "Open problems". And, from this table, you will find the current status of the research. Any help or idea on the subject is welcome! Christian.