Jeff

Are you tired of boring homework questions that are really easy to answer? Here's an interesting theoretical question that involves a derivation and calculation. Consider only the earth and the moon in an isolated system, but assume that they are stationary instead of orbiting around their barycenter. As the earth and moon draw nearer to each other by gravitational attraction, what is their relative velocity upon colliding? Treat the earth and moon as if they are rigid spheres separated by 384,000 km. I already have the answer, but I am posting this as a fun challenge for advanced students or retired teachers. 10 pts goes to the first correct answer.

You have a container of grapes, a container of olives, and a container of grapes and olives. All three containers are mislabeled. What is the minimum number of tastings required to identify all three containers, and what order would you choose? Assume that you have no other clues, such as smelling or looking in the containers. Also, only one grape or olive is withdrawn for tasting.