Multiple choice general knowledge math & puzzles

What is the maximum number of slices can you obtain by cutting a cake with only 4 cuts?

  1. 16

  2. 21

  3. 32

  4. 61
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A Correct answer
Explanation

The maximum number of pieces $P$ that can be obtained with $n$ cuts is given by the formula $P = (n^3 + 5n + 6) / 6$ for 3D cuts. For 4 cuts, $(64 + 20 + 6) / 6 = 15$. If restricted to 2D, the formula is $(n^2 + n + 2) / 2$, giving 11. 16 is only possible if cuts are arranged as $2^n$, which requires specific geometric stacking.

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