Good Puzzles/ Interview Questions

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In summary, the conversation is about someone applying to study an undergraduate Physics course and looking for physics-based brain teasers to prepare for an upcoming academic interview. They are seeking elegant ways to apply familiar material to unfamiliar problems and some suggestions are provided in a thread. The person also expresses their interest in finding more puzzles for practice.
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bananabandana
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I'm applying to study an undergrad Physics course.

I have an (academic) interview coming up next week. Was wondering if anyone around here knew any physics based brain teasers that might come up? Would be much appreciated! :)

Ideally it would be less technical and more of a puzzle - they don't expect you to have learned 'extra' Physics, per se, but just to be very elegant in applying it to unfamiliar problems based on familiar material.

Thanks for all the help :)
 
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  • #2
Some enigmas from my thread:
(some math and logic mixed in)
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4492426&postcount=24
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4493345&postcount=29
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4496631&postcount=55
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4497429&postcount=68
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4507529&postcount=136
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4507975&postcount=145
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4510260&postcount=219
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4514205&postcount=248
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4516208&postcount=278
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4516616&postcount=292
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4516938&postcount=305
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4517335&postcount=310
The best one probably: https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4518892&postcount=327
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4520883&postcount=401
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4521152&postcount=404
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4521260&postcount=409
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4523056&postcount=457
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4528108&postcount=513
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4531459&postcount=523
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4535354&postcount=609
till page 34
:grumpy: find the others yourself...
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=706554&page=34
P.S. If you know some please do ask in the thread :smile:

E- P.P.S. Yes, this is me begging for more puzzles.
 
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1. What makes a puzzle or interview question "good"?

A good puzzle or interview question should be challenging, thought-provoking, and able to assess problem-solving skills. It should also have multiple possible solutions and allow for creativity in finding those solutions.

2. Why are puzzles and interview questions used in the hiring process?

Puzzles and interview questions are used to evaluate a candidate's critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and ability to handle pressure and think on their feet. They can also give insight into a candidate's creativity and approach to problem-solving.

3. How can I prepare for puzzles and interview questions during the hiring process?

The best way to prepare is to practice solving a variety of puzzles and interview questions. This can help improve critical thinking skills and allow you to become more comfortable with the format and types of questions that may be asked.

4. Are there any specific types of puzzles or interview questions that are commonly used?

Yes, there are various types of puzzles and interview questions that are commonly used, such as brain teasers, logic puzzles, and hypothetical scenarios. Each type may assess different skills and have a different approach, so it's important to be familiar with a variety of types.

5. How can I approach solving a puzzle or interview question if I am stuck?

If you are stuck on a puzzle or interview question, try breaking it down into smaller parts and tackling each part separately. You can also try looking at the problem from a different perspective or asking for help or clarification if allowed. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and be creative in your approach.

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