Poisonous Measurements

Logic Level 3

You are given 8 tablets of the same size, color and odor but one of them is poisonous. The poisonous one is heavier than the normal ones.

You are also given a balance to find the poisonous one.

What is the minimum number of times you have to use the balance to figure out the poisonous tablet?

3 4 6 1 2

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2 solutions

Sravanth C.
Feb 9, 2015

First of all, separate the tablets as 3, 3 and 2. Now, put three tablets on one side of the balance and the other three on the other side.

If the balance doesn't show any change: Put the remaining two tablets on either side of the balance and see which goes down.

If the balance shows a change: Take the three tablets which went down. Now put any two tablets on either side of the balance and see if there is any change.

If there isn't any the remaining tablet is the poisonous one. And if there is any the one that goes down is the poisonous!

Excellent problem! @Sravanth Chebrolu

Swapnil Das - 6 years ago

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Thanks Swapnil! Also try the new part of happy hour prices !

Sravanth C. - 6 years ago

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For Sure! By the way, it seems that you are quiet active on Brilliant.

Swapnil Das - 6 years ago

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@Swapnil Das Recently, yes.

Sravanth C. - 6 years ago

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@Sravanth C. Well will you write RMO this year?

Swapnil Das - 6 years ago

actually it can work for even 9 tablets

Chaitanya Lodha - 6 years, 3 months ago

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you'r right, by separating them 3,3,3 and balance 3 to 3.

Ahmed Mogy - 5 years, 8 months ago
Farhan Khalid
Jul 29, 2015

I am just a kid i do not know how to explain.just too brilliant

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