23 Aug 06
3 edits
Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson, H and W, are told that two positive integers x and y have been chosen such that 1 < x < y and x + y < 100. H is given the value x + y and W is given the value xy. They then have the following conversation:
W: I cannot determine the two numbers.
H: I knew that.
W: Now I can determine them.
H: So can I.
Given that Holmes' and Watson's logic is impeccable and that the above statements are all true, what are the two numbers?
24 Aug 06
1 edit
Originally posted by ThudanBlunderGreat problem, got a chuckle from me! No idea how to actually solve it!
Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson, H and W, are told that two positive integers x and y have been chosen such that 1 < x < y and x + y < 100. H is given the value x + y and W is given the value xy. They then have the following conversation:
W: I cannot determine the two numbers.
H: I knew that.
W: Now I can determine them.
H: So on's logic is impeccable and that the above statements are all true, what are the two numbers?
Ah, simultaneous equations.
24 Aug 06
Originally posted by sonhouseThe problem here isn't the simultaneous equations but the logical conditions that Holmes and Watson demonstrate. Holmes knows that Watson cannot solve the equations just based on the information he is given and once Watson knows that that is the case then he can solve the system. And once Holmes knows that Watson can now solve it so can he.
Great problem, got a chuckle from me! No idea how to actually solve it!
Ah, simultaneous equations.
24 Aug 06
Originally posted by KipyushaExplanation and lengthy discussion on this problem can be found in Thread 17714.
x=4; y=13
I could explain it, but it'd take a while... 😉