Suppose you want to create a set of weights so that any object with an integer weight from 1 to 40 pounds can be balanced on a two-sided scale by placing a certain combination of these weights onto that scale. what is the fewest number of weights you need, and what are their weights?

You need 4 weights, and the weights are 1; 3; 9 and 27.

Step-by-step explanation:

Since the scale has two plates, we can place weights on either side and also the object so it can be balanced.

This is a key part of the problem, it's not only on the other side of the scale, but on both sides.

Let's do the math now.

If i get two weights, 1 and 3. I can form this combinations.

Object of 1lb = 1

Object of 2lb + 1 weight = 3 weight.

Object of 3lb = 3 weight

Object of 4lb = 1 weight + 3 weight.

So what if i want to add the next weight and that weight to add me the maximum amount of objects. The weight would have to have a difference with the last object plus one. So if i grab 9. 9 minus 4 is 5. And that is a difference with the last object plus 1.

With a weight of 9, now i can add all the integers up to 13lb.

And the next step? Lets add one more. Keeping the last rule, the weight would have to have a difference with the last object plus one. So if i grab 27, 27 minus 13 is 14. And that is a difference witht the last object plus 1.

The sum of all the weights adds up to 40 pounds. And i can balance any integer in the middle.

The formula we are using is p – n = n + 1

Where p is the new weight. and n is the last object we weighted. And the sum of the weights goes up to the last object we can place on the scale, and in this case is 40.

answer is:

1.75 pounds

answer: plz put a pic in so i can answer it

step-by-step explanation: