Switching the sides means the error factor is going to be 1/2 of what it appears to be. It appears that the melons weigh 1/4 less when switched
In the original weighing, each melon appears to be 1/8 kg. In the second weighing, each melon appears to be 1/2 kg.
note, 1/8 is 1/4 of 1/2
So, the actual error factor is 2 (half of 4). Therefore, one bar is twice as long as the other bar.
You can show this to work out:
1kg 8melons
-------------------- ----------
2x units long ^ x units long
Since the left side is twice as long, it is acting like there is 2kg on the left. Each melon weights 1/4 kg on the above scale.
2melons 1kg
-------------------- ----------
2x units long ^ x units long
Since the left side is twice as long, it is acting like there are 4 melons on the left. Each melon weights 1/4 kg on the above scale.
Interactive Math Goodies Software
Topic Locked
Posted - 09/04/2007 : 14:58:04
Yes, just call me Over The Hill.
