jimmy@rlvd.UUCP (Jimmy Aitken) (06/21/85)
An interesting problem was encountered by a friend recently. It involves a number (n) of optical fibres of the same size contained within a larger wire. The problem is as follows: Find the minimum radius of the larger wire in terms of the radius of the n fibres. The problem is essentially that of arranging n circles of radius r inside a larger circle of radius R, such that R is at a minimum. This problem is not trivial. Ideally, a general equation should be derived for n circles, or alternatively a proof that no such equation is possible. As a test, find the result for the case where n = 10. Any proofs, ideas, comments or suggestions would be appreciated. Ian Gunn. (...mcvax!ukc!rlvd!rlvg!ian) -- Jimmy Aitken, ..!mcvax!ukc!rlvd!jimmy Rutherford Appleton Labs, Didcot, OXON, U.K. +44 235 446555