Can You Get Rich By Nailing 32 Horse Shoes?

  • Thread starter campingfriend
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In summary, the conversation discusses the cost of putting horse shoes on a horse, with each nail costing double the previous one. If 32 nails are used, it would result in a large sum of money. The conversation also references an ancient mathematical problem involving doubling numbers on a chessboard. It is suggested that if 33 nails were used, the cost could potentially exceed the capacity of a 32-bit variable.
  • #1
campingfriend
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So if you are putting horse shoes on a horse it takes 32 nails. Imagine telling the horse owner you will do the first nail for a penny and the second nail for 2 pennys. Each nail will be double the prior nail.Once the final nail is installed ant the total is tallied up, will he be able to pay you? You might be surprised at your bank account if he actually writes you a check for the correct amount. That would be a lot spending cash at your disposal.
 
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  • #2
campingfriend said:
So if you are putting horse shoes on a horse it takes 32 nails. Imagine telling the horse owner you will do the first nail for a penny and the second nail for 2 pennys. Each nail will be double the prior nail.Once the final nail is installed ant the total is tallied up, will he be able to pay you? You might be surprised at your bank account if he actually writes you a check for the correct amount. That would be a lot spending cash at your disposal.

This has been known since ancient times. The original was 1 grain of wheat one the first square of a chessboard, 2 on the 2nd, etc.
 
  • #3
$$\sum_{n=0}^{N-1} 2^n = \frac{2^{N} - 1}{2 - 1} = 2^{N} - 1 = 2^{32} - 1$$
Good thing it wasn't 33 nails, or you might have had an even bigger surprise if that slacker who programmed your bank's software used 32-bit variables...
 
  • #4
jbunniii said:
$$\sum_{n=0}^{N-1} 2^n = \frac{2^{N} - 1}{2 - 1} = 2^{N} - 1 = 2^{32} - 1$$
Good thing it wasn't 33 nails, or you might have had an even bigger surprise if that slacker who programmed your bank's software used 32-bit variables...

Depends on if they used signed or unsigned :D
 
  • #5


As a scientist, it is important to approach this question from a logical and factual perspective. While it is possible to earn money by nailing horse shoes, it is highly unlikely that one could become rich solely by this method.

Firstly, the cost per nail is not fixed, and can vary depending on factors such as location, type of shoe, and skill level of the farrier. Therefore, it is not accurate to assume that the cost per nail will continue to double.

Secondly, the number of horses requiring shoeing may not be consistent or high enough to sustain a steady income. Horses may not need shoeing for extended periods of time, and there may also be competition from other farriers in the area.

Furthermore, the cost of supplies and equipment needed for shoeing, as well as the time and effort put into the job, must also be taken into consideration. These expenses can significantly reduce the profit from nailing horse shoes.

In conclusion, while it is possible to earn money by nailing horse shoes, it is not a reliable or sustainable method for becoming rich. It is important to consider all factors and expenses involved in this job before assuming it will lead to a significant increase in income.
 

1. Can you really get rich by nailing 32 horse shoes?

It is highly unlikely that nailing 32 horse shoes would make someone rich. While the act of nailing horse shoes may have been a profession in the past, it is not a lucrative career in modern times.

2. Is there a specific technique or method to nailing 32 horse shoes?

There are various techniques and methods for nailing horse shoes, but the number of shoes does not necessarily determine the technique used. It is important to have proper training and experience to properly nail horse shoes.

3. How long would it take to nail 32 horse shoes?

The time it takes to nail 32 horse shoes can vary depending on the skill and experience of the person nailing them. It could take anywhere from a few hours to a full day.

4. What materials are needed to nail 32 horse shoes?

The materials needed to nail horse shoes include a hammer, nails, hoof pick, rasp, and a shoeing box. It is important to have high-quality tools for the safety and comfort of the horse.

5. Can anyone learn how to nail 32 horse shoes?

While anyone can learn how to nail horse shoes, it requires proper training and experience to do so safely and effectively. It is not recommended for someone to attempt nailing horse shoes without proper training.

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