Monday, July 25, 2005

Old puzzle, new puzzle

An old puzzle asks how a barometer can be used to measure the height of a building. Answers range from dropping the instrument from the top and measuring the time of its fall to giving it to the building's superintendent in return for a look at the plans. A modern version of the puzzle asks how a personal computer can balance a checkbook. An elegant solution is to sell the machine and deposit the money.
(- Jon Bentley)

Any other answers?

1 Comments:

At 10:53 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

If you've heard of the entire barometer story, check it out at
http://www.mycoted.com/creativity/puzzles/puzzle03.php

Makes a very interesting reading.

Ashish points out that the text book answer is actually the worst. The difference in air pressure due to heights is based on other factors like wind speed, humidity etc. Astute, as usual.

 

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