Problems from Another Time

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

If an arc of 45 degrees on one circumference is equal to an arc of 60 degrees on another circle, what is the ratio of the areas of the circles?

A vessel is anchored in 3 fathoms of water and the cable passes over a sheave in the bowsprit which is 6 ft above the water.

How high above the earth must a person be raised that he [or she] may see 1/3 of its surface?

There is a fish whose body weighs 8 ounces. How much does the whole fish weigh?

Show that the curves x2 - y2 = a2 and 2 xy = b2 cross at right angles.

A barrel has various holes in it. The first hole empties the barrel in three days...

How many calves, goats and pigs did the farmer buy?

Two men starting from the same point begin walking in different directions. Their rates of travel are in the ratio 7:3.

The authors recount the 'great tale' of Napier's and Burgi's parallel development of logarithms and urge you to use it in class.

A person has a circular yard that is 150 ft. in diameter, and wishes a walk of equal width made round it within the fence...

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