Mathematics of an Ancient Computing Device

Author(s): 
Dean Clark, Lisa Chen

Dean Clark
(dclark.math@juno.com)
Lisa Chen
(chen@uri.edu)

University of Rhode Island

This site uses LiveMath (a link to the free plugin is included) to allow the user to explore mathematical questions about an "equal-arm balance."

SOFTWARE SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Browsers: Internet Explorer 5+, Netscape 6+
  • PluginsLiveMath (Free)
  • Operating Systems: Windows, Macintosh

Open Mathematics of an Ancient Computing Device in a new window

Mathematics of an Ancient Computing Device

Author(s): 
Dean Clark, Lisa Chen

Dean Clark
(dclark.math@juno.com)
Lisa Chen
(chen@uri.edu)

University of Rhode Island

This site uses LiveMath (a link to the free plugin is included) to allow the user to explore mathematical questions about an "equal-arm balance."

SOFTWARE SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Browsers: Internet Explorer 5+, Netscape 6+
  • PluginsLiveMath (Free)
  • Operating Systems: Windows, Macintosh

Open Mathematics of an Ancient Computing Device in a new window

Mathematics of an Ancient Computing Device - Editorial Review

Author(s): 
Dean Clark, Lisa Chen

An equal-arm balance with a set of known weights (usually stones) has been used to determine the weight of objects for centuries. This site consists of a LiveMath application for exploring the problem of determining a necessary and sufficient condition on the "stones" so that every integer-weighted object within a specified range can be weighed. A short set of exercises leading the reader through the mathematics is included.

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