Weighing 9 Balls - Solution

Puzzles -> Measuring Puzzles

The Puzzle: You have 9 balls, equally big, equally heavy - except for one, which is a little heavier.

How would you identify the heavier ball if you could use a pair of balance scales only twice?

.
.
.
.
(Scroll down if you really want
to see the Solution ...)
.
.
.
.
.
.

The Solution . . .

Divide the 9 balls into 3 groups of 3. Compare the weight of two of those groups.

The heavier group should then be obvious, it will either tip the scales, or, if the scales stay balanced, then it is the group you didn't include.

Now, choose 2 balls from this group and compare their weights, and using the same logic as before, the heavier ball will be obvious.

Discuss this puzzle at our Forum