Largest possible radius homework problem

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SUMMARY

The problem involves determining the largest possible radius of a sphere that can fit inside a 100 mm cube while touching a wire inserted 20 mm from two adjacent edges. The solution utilizes the Pythagorean theorem to calculate the radius, resulting in a maximum radius of 47 mm. The geometry of the cube and the positioning of the wire are crucial in establishing the constraints for the sphere's size.

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thereddevils
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Homework Statement



A 100 mm cube has a thin and rigid wire inserted 20 mm from each of two adjacent edges ,as shown.The cube contains a sphere that is not cut by the wire .What is the largest possible radius ,to the nearest mm, of the sphere that just touches the wire?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Some hints ?
 

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thereddevils said:

Homework Statement



A 100 mm cube has a thin and rigid wire inserted 20 mm from each of two adjacent edges ,as shown.The cube contains a sphere that is not cut by the wire .What is the largest possible radius ,to the nearest mm, of the sphere that just touches the wire?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Some hints ?

Here's a top view, drawn to scale. That's my hint:

forumsphereincube.jpg
 


LCKurtz said:
Here's a top view, drawn to scale. That's my hint:

forumsphereincube.jpg

that's a great hint, thanks! I got r=47mm by phythagoras.
 

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