perplexus.info :: Weights and Scales : More Scales and Measures

More Scales and Measures (Posted on 2005-06-28)

There are 26 packages, labeled A to Z, and each is known to weigh some whole number of pounds in the range of 1 to 26. It is possible that two or more packages weigh the same amount.

(a) Determine the weight of each package with a two-pan balance and exactly four weights of your design.
(b) Now do it with exactly three weights.

Submitted by Erik O.

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Solution: (Hide)

(a) Weights of 1, 3, 9, and 27 do the job.
(b) Weights of 2, 6, and 18 do the job. Note that a 1 pound package is the only one that won't balance or lift a 2 lb. weight.

Comments: ( You must be logged in to post comments.)

Subject	Author	Date
Solution	Richard Carrigan	2005-06-29 18:52:17
re: Using 4 weights	The King	2005-06-29 16:11:25
Using 4 weights	Lisa	2005-06-28 16:15:56
Solution to B	Hugo	2005-06-28 16:15:36
Solution to A	Hugo	2005-06-28 16:03:42
Some thoughts	Sing4TheDay	2005-06-28 15:40:13

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