I'm posting one puzzle, riddle, math, or statistical problem a day. Try to answer each one and post your answers in the comments section. I'll post the answer the next day. Even if you have the same answer as someone else, feel free to put up your answer, too!
Monday, June 25, 2007
Crystal Challenge
If you coated a tennis ball with glue, how many other tennis balls can you attach directly to this sticky surface?
It depends on which form of sphere packing is used. I think the maximum number is 16, although there are numerous ways of packing tightly that would involve fewer balls.
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It depends on which form of sphere packing is used. I think the maximum number is 16, although there are numerous ways of packing tightly that would involve fewer balls.
ReplyDeleteI thought the maximum would be 12, but I'm not a crystal expert.
ReplyDeletePlace the sticky ball onto three tennis balls, like a pyramid. Place six balls around the center. Then place three more on the top.
Mike I think it might be possible actually to get 5 around the base, then the row of 6, and 5 on top. but i'm not sure either.
ReplyDeleteShouldn't you know the answer?
ReplyDeleteAside from gluing up a tennis ball, you mean?
ReplyDeleteNo, I don't always have the best answer to these questions. Sometimes andy (or someone else) has a better answer than I do.
In this case, I thought 12 was the best answer. But I can't disprove 16.