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Submission Details
Severity: low
Invalid

Magic Number Usage without clear additional documentation for usecase

Summary

The sqrt function within the MathMasters library employs the magic number 181 without clear explanation. This practice is discouraged, as it lacks transparency and may lead to confusion. It is recommended to replace the magic number with a named constant or provide comments to elucidate its significance.

Vulnerability Details

The vulnerability stems from the use of the magic number 181 in the sqrt function without sufficient explanation. Magic numbers are hardcoded constants that lack context, making it difficult to discern their purpose. In this case, the significance of the number 181 is unclear without additional documentation.

POC

/// @dev Returns the square root of `x`.
function sqrt(uint256 x) internal pure returns (uint256 z) {
/// @solidity memory-safe-assembly
assembly {
z := 181
// Assembly code for square root calculation
// ...
}
}

Impact

The use of magic numbers without proper explanation can result in confusion reviewing or modifying the code. It may lead to misinterpretation of the code's logic and increase the likelihood of introducing errors during maintenance. Additionally, future engineers may struggle to understand the rationale behind the specific value chosen for the magic number.

Tools Used

No specific tools were used to identify this vulnerability. Manual code review and analysis were conducted.

Recommendations

It is recommended to address the magic number usage by either replacing it with a named constant or providing comments to explain its significance. This enhances code clarity and makes it more accessible for developers.

To address this vulnerability, the magic number 181 can be replaced with a named constant or supplemented with comments:

/// @dev Returns the square root of `x`.
function sqrt(uint256 x) internal pure returns (uint256 z) {
// Named constant for initial estimate in the Babylonian method
uint256 constant INITIAL_ESTIMATE = 181;
// Alternatively, provide comments explaining the significance of 181
// uint256 constant INITIAL_ESTIMATE = 181; // Initial estimate for the Babylonian method
// ...
}

By replacing the magic number with a named constant or adding comments, the code becomes more transparent, aiding developers in understanding the purpose of the constant.

Updates

Lead Judging Commences

inallhonesty Lead Judge over 1 year ago
Submission Judgement Published
Invalidated
Reason: Non-acceptable severity

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