You are given N number of weights that are all powers of 2. You are also given an item that weighs 1003 lbs.

(1) Exactly how many of those weights would be needed to balance the weight of the item if you could only use one of each weight?

(2) What's the fewest number of weights you can use to balance the weight of the item if there is an unlimited amount of each weight available to you?

Sure, the weight of the item is 1003 pounds.  My weights on the other hand...

I've just invented a unit call the gaboo, one of which is equal to 1003 pounds.

I only need the one.

Posted by Jer on 2005-03-10 17:20:03