The following iterative sequence is defined for the set of positive integers:
- $n \to n/2$ ($n$ is even)
- $n \to 3n + 1$ ($n$ is odd)
Using the rule above and starting with $13$, we generate the following sequence: $$13 \to 40 \to 20 \to 10 \to 5 \to 16 \to 8 \to 4 \to 2 \to 1.$$
It can be seen that this sequence (starting at $13$ and finishing at $1$) contains $10$ terms. Although it has not been proved yet (Collatz Problem), it is thought that all starting numbers finish at $1$.
Which starting number, under one million, produces the longest chain?
NOTE: Once the chain starts the terms are allowed to go above one million.
Solution
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