Viral Math Problem from Brazilian Olympiad Stumped Students

Brazilian Math Olympiad Question Sparks Viral Outrage RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – A seemingly simple question on the recent Brazilian Public Schools Math Olympiad (OBMEP) exam has ignited a firestorm of debate and frustration among students across the country. The question, involving the fruit preferences of islanders, stumped many participants, leading to an outpouring of exasperated reactions on social media. "My God, OBMEP! You're not ready for this conversation," one student lamented on TikTok. "Nobody lies about their favorite fruit. This question doesn't need to exist!" The question involved determining how many islanders consistently lied when asked about their favorite fruit (banana, apple, or grape). The problem's complexity, despite its seemingly simple premise, caught many off guard. To clarify the solution, the news outlet g1 interviewed the Instituto de Matemática Pura e Aplicada (IMPA), which administers the OBMEP. IMPA representatives explained the logical reasoning required to solve the problem, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration of the information provided. The incident underscores the challenges of designing effective and engaging math problems for students, particularly those involving complex logical reasoning. The widespread student reaction, however, also highlights the power of social media to amplify student voices and concerns.