Computation of Working Periods of Two Teams by Linear Equations

Abstract

The mathematical problem tackled here is a simple application of simultaneous linear equations. It has origin in several puzzles asked by my father to school going children. Yesterday, I recalled the problem and framed it in a different style. I circulated it to my fellow colleagues in the mathematical world. There were not many responses as the academicians’ world is shrinking. People do not bother to waste their time unless there are any immediate (monetary) gains. It is heartening to note that above three intellectuals gave attention to the problem and came out with their correct answers. In addition, a junior lady colleague of mine (in the past) Prof. Dr. Mrs. Geetika Shrivastava (currently visiting the I.C.T.P., Trieste, Italy) also took pains in solving it. However, her answers were not correct hence, she is not included as a co-author.