In an age dominated by endless scrolling and swiping, it’s refreshing to see something as timeless as a brain teaser capturing the internet’s attention. Mathematical riddles have carved out a popular niche online, offering a quick yet stimulating mental challenge for users of all ages. Whether it’s to test one’s intelligence, pass the time, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of cracking a tricky code, brain teasers have become a digital obsession.

(Also read: Only a true puzzle genius with sharp logic can crack this confusing maths brain teaser)

The puzzle we have for you today is no exception—it has left users both confused and intrigued in equal measure.

The latest puzzle to stump the internet

A new brain teaser, posted by X (formerly Twitter) user @jitendra789789, has left the internet scratching its head. The riddle reads:

“If 1 = 2, 2 = 8, 3 = 18, 4 = 32, Then 5 = ?”

Check out the puzzle here:

At first glance, it may look like a sequence of arbitrary numbers, but seasoned puzzle lovers know there’s always a method to the madness. The challenge lies in spotting the hidden pattern—a task that’s proved to be trickier than expected, with social media users sharing theories, equations, and logic in a bid to find the right answer.

(Also read: Brain teaser: Only those with exceptional IQ can crack this tricky puzzle that 90% fail to solve)

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time @jitendra789789 has captured the internet’s attention with a mind-bending maths puzzle. A previous teaser from the same account left users equally puzzled. That one read:

“9 + 3 + 0 = 0, 1 + 2 + 5 = 10, 2 + 4 + 7 = 56, 3 + 9 + 1 = ?”

Why these puzzles keep us hooked

There’s something undeniably addictive about brain teasers. They challenge our thinking, encourage creative problem-solving, and often provide that satisfying “aha!” moment. In the fast-paced world of the internet, they offer a brief, stimulating pause that appeals to both logic-lovers and casual scrollers alike.

So, have you figured out the answer yet? Don’t worry if you haven’t—sometimes, half the fun is in the trying.