# Thread: Conjunction / Disjunction Word Problem [Mathematics:Liberal Arts]

1. ## Conjunction / Disjunction Word Problem [Mathematics:Liberal Arts]

There are 12 balls on the top of the board, numbered left to right. There is a platform in front of you with buttons numbered 1-12 corresponding to the 12 balls. The goal is to push 6 buttons, releasing 6 balls, so that only one ball is allowed to reach the bottom. Using your knowledge of ANDs and ORs, which six balls should you release? (There is more than one answer).

Thanks so much guys and gals!

2. ## Re: Conjunction / Disjunction Word Problem [Mathematics:Liberal Arts]

I can't visualize this. Can you provide more details? How are the balls "released"? Why don't they all fall down to the bottom?

4. ## Re: Conjunction / Disjunction Word Problem [Mathematics:Liberal Arts]

So let me get this straight. When two balls fall into an AND gate, one ball falls out, but if only one ball falls into an AND gate, then no balls fall out, right? And if one or two balls fall into an OR gate, then one ball falls out? This is probably the first time I see an application of logic gates to such a contrived mechanical situation.

What happens when you release balls 1 through 6?

5. ## Re: Conjunction / Disjunction Word Problem [Mathematics:Liberal Arts]

Code:
So let me get this straight. When two balls fall into an AND gate, one ball falls out, but if only one ball falls into an AND gate, then no balls fall out, right? And if one or two balls fall into an OR gate, then one ball falls out? This is probably the first time I see an application of logic gates to such a contrived mechanical situation.
Correct.

The wording and problem itself is confusing to me because I have spent hours just contemplating on the wording of the question. My teacher is unavailable to comment on it as well. So I am interpreting this myself just as you are.

6. ## Re: Conjunction / Disjunction Word Problem [Mathematics:Liberal Arts]

So,
Originally Posted by emakarov
What happens when you release balls 1 through 6?

7. ## Re: Conjunction / Disjunction Word Problem [Mathematics:Liberal Arts]

I think would work with the given logic you have provided would it not!