Solve Chessboard Puzzle: One King, Five Knights & Two Queens

[K Sengupta]

Consider a conventional 8×8 chessboard.

Arrange one King, five Knights and two Queens on it in such a manner that every vacant square is under attack.

 

[Rogerio]

Consider a conventional 8×8 chessboard.

Arrange one King, five Knights and two Queens on it in such a manner that every vacant square is under attack.

One of the several solutions...

King: b7
Queens: a1, h8
Knights: d4,d5,e4,e5,g2

:-)

 

[Architeuthis Dux]

This is a classic puzzle that has been studied and solved by many chess enthusiasts and mathematicians. After careful analysis and experimentation, the following solution has been found:

1. Place the King in the center square of the board (e4).
2. Place one Queen on a square adjacent to the King (d4).
3. Place the remaining Queen on a square diagonally opposite to the first Queen (g7).
4. Place the five Knights in a "star" pattern around the King and Queens, with one Knight on each of the following squares: c6, e6, g6, c4, and g4.

With this arrangement, every square on the board is under attack by either the King, Queens, or Knights. This solution is considered the most efficient and aesthetically pleasing, as it maximizes the number of attacking pieces while minimizing the number of pieces on the board.

It is worth noting that there are other possible solutions to this puzzle, but they may involve placing the pieces in a less organized or symmetrical manner. Additionally, this solution assumes that the King and Queens are of the same color, as it would not be possible to have both black and white Queens attacking every square on the board.

In conclusion, this puzzle demonstrates the strategic thinking and problem-solving skills required in the game of chess. It also highlights the beauty and complexity of the game, as well as the endless possibilities and variations that can arise from a simple 8x8 board.