A paper strip has squares numbered 1 to 8. It is folded in half by lifting the right end over onto the left end (8 lands on 1). The folded strip is folded the same way again, and then once more. Which numbered square ends up on top of the pile?

Question

Accepted Answer

2. Fold 1 gives piles 1–8, 2–7, 3–6, 4–5 (bottom to top). Fold 2 turns the 3–6 and 4–5 piles over onto the others: piles 1, 8, 5, 4 and 2, 7, 6, 3. Fold 3 turns the second pile over onto the first: 1, 8, 5, 4, 3, 6, 7, 2 from bottom to top, so square 2 is on top.

A paper strip has squares numbered 1 to 8. It is folded in half by lifting the right end over onto the left end (8 lands on 1). The folded strip is folded the same way again, and then once more. Which numbered square ends up on top of the pile?

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