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Problems from Another Time

Individual problems from throughout mathematics history, as well as articles that include problem sets for students.

Multiplying Like Rabbits
Assume that the human population after the flood was 6 and that 200 years later the population was 1,000,000. Find the annual rate of growth of the population.
Lunchtime at the Fish Pond
A fish sees a heron looking at him from across a pool, so he quickly swims towards the south. When he reaches the south side of the pool, he has the unwelcome surprise of meeting the heron.
Dimensions of a Box
The dimensions of a rectangular box in inches are expressed by three consecutive numbers. The surface of the box is 292 square inches. Find the dimensions.
A Tower on a Cliff
A cliff with a tower on its edge is observed from a boat at sea; find the height of the cliff and the tower.
Dealing in Sheep
A man bought a number of sheep for $225; 10 of them having died, he sold 4/5 of the remainder for the same cost and received $150 for them. How many did he buy?
Horse of Course
One person possesses 7 asava horses, another 9 haya horses, and another 9 camels. Each gives two animals away, one to each of the others.
The Amount of Time a Man Can Do Work
How long does it take a single man to do work when...
A Serious Series
Given the fraction ax/(a-x), convert it into an infinite series.
Four Integers
Given four integers which, if added together three at a time, their sums are: 20, 22, 24, and 27. What are the integers?
Golden Spheres
A California miner has a spherical ball of gold, 2 inches in diameter, which he wants to exchange for spherical balls 1 inch in diameter. How many of the smaller spheres should he receive?

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