The 8 Ball Problem

Oct 23, 2008


FirstClassThoughts.co.uk has posted a fun thought experiment logic problem. Thought I'd share it here:

The problem is quite simple. You are given 8 identical-looking balls, one of which is heavier than the other 7 (all of which weigh the same). Using an old-fashioned mechanical set of scales you must identify the heavier ball using the scale as few times as possible. The scale is constructed using two bowls and an arm enabling the bowls to either balance or have one bowl rising while the other (and heavier bowl) falling. You can't just add one ball at a time thinking its one weighing, however, you may put any number of balls in each bowl... All you need to solve the puzzle is to use a bit of common sense.
Click here for the solution. Hint: it's not 3!

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