I have a pencil that always rolls around on a slanted surface. One end is wider and heavier than the other. So whenever it rolls, it goes in a wide circle. Otherwise, the pencil is featureless, only becoming steadily wider towards one end.

The difference between the two diameters on the two ends is exactly 144 times smaller than the length of the pencil. If the pencil is pointing uphill on a slanted surface, how many times will it spin until it points downhill?

(In reply to But on the other hand.... by Penny)

I don't ever recall physical possibility being relevant. But it sure can generate a lot of discussion...

Posted by Brian Wainscott on 2004-02-24 14:57:06