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After reading about ternary number notation, it shouldn't be hard to solve one of my favorite brain teasers:

Given a simple balance scale with pans on both sides, how many weights does a merchant need to be able to weigh any whole number of grams from 1 to 40?

Most people have trouble getting the right answer, but its easy with balanced ternary. Try it!



This is actually explained in the article.




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