What is Problem solving: Definition and 238 Discussions

Problem solving consists of using generic or ad hoc methods in an orderly manner to find solutions to problems. Some of the problem-solving techniques developed and used in philosophy, artificial intelligence, computer science, engineering, mathematics, medicine and societies in general are related to mental problem-solving techniques studied in psychology and cognitive sciences.

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  1. F

    Writing: Input Wanted Some problem solving -- probe is traveling to Alpha centauri

    Hello, I am trying to write a scene- story is set a bit in the future in which theoretically, using nuclear as a fuel is a possibility in space travel. The problem I'm trying to solve right now is if a probe is traveling to Alpha centauri (4.37) light years from the sun and the probe...
  2. T

    B Problem solving with hyperbolic functions

    Mod note: Because his caps-lock key is stuck, it's OK for this post to be in all caps. FIRSTLY, MY LAPTOP'S CAPS LOCK IS BEHAVING REALLY WEIRD AND I HAVE NO CONTROL ON IT WHATSOEVER. SO SORRY FOR POSTING IN ALL CAPS/ALL SMALL LETTERS I HAVE RECENTLY LEARNED HYPERBOLIC FUNCTIONS. HOWEVER, I AM...
  3. Anshul23

    Light in a cup (Can you explain this phenomenon?)

    Can anyone explain the behavior of light I came across as I sat in my lounge this evening having a nice cup of Mocha . Hint ( I am sitting in a room with some led ceiling lights on) can you: 1.Guess how many Led lights I have on 2.Explain the appearance of light which is looking like a typical...
  4. mechlite

    A Solving Queueing Problem: Population to Queue to Server

    First post and I'm wondering if I could get some help. I'm new to queueing theory so I'm not sure how to solve this problem. Population-------------> Queue--------------> Server I have a calling population that is infinite or a vast amount. The queue capacity is limited at 13. There is 1...
  5. doggonemess

    Determine speed of car from result of impact?

    Greetings, It's been quite a while since I had to do anything with velocity, friction, mass, and practically any physics over simple calculations. My car was hit yesterday while parked. There were no injuries, and it still drives just fine. The collision was hard enough to deploy the other...
  6. Isobel

    Two cars moving towards each other - bullets fired

    Homework Statement This problem-solving question is about a police car chasing criminals. Two cars are moving in the same direction, parallel (assumed). One car is moving at 82 km/h. The other car is moving at 64 km/h. Bullets are fired from the car moving at 82 km/h towards the car moving at...
  7. clamatoman

    Solving for Imax and Energy in an LC Circuit: Homework Help

    Homework Statement 4700uF Capacitor is initially charged to 9.0V, then the voltage source is removed and the capacitor is connected across a 1.50H inductor. Solve for: Energy of the Circuit, Imax, and Time after Circuit connected whed Energy of the capacitor =Energy of the inductor Homework...
  8. L

    MHB Rational function equation problem solving

    Hi I've been tying to figure this out for days. The answer has to be in the form of a rational equation. John wants to start a padlock company. The production cost of one padlock is 12$. John plans to spend 15 000$ on advertising. He decides to sell each padlock for 20$. 1.Which equation gives...
  9. S

    Can we solve for x(t) and y(t) with respect to time?

    Homework Statement I would like to ask a question I was discussing the other day with a friend of mine. Suppose you have a point mass m, sliding on the friction-free curve y = e^{-x} starting from position x(0) = 0 and y(0) = 1 with zero initial velocity. Can we find in closed-form the exact...
  10. Z

    Other What are the problem solving skills you gain from.... (Physics vs. Engineering)

    How are the problem solving skills you gain from majoring in Physics and majoring in Engineering different? I have noticed that a lot of people think you get better at problem solving by majoring in Physics when compared to engineering, and I don't understand why. I mean, they both study the...
  11. G

    B How to improve problem solving skills

    Hello, I'm new here so forgive me for my ignorance. I am currently a freshman majoring in Physics. I am having trouble trying to understand the concepts in my physics class. In high school I took precalculus and regular physics. My physics teacher was good, but had some trouble expressing his...
  12. Mastermind01

    Studying Understanding physics and problem solving

    Hello, I would like to have a good understanding of physics at my level (level of Halliday-resnick) and to be able to solve problems. It so happens that I read a chapter and solve the all the problems and exercises and I feel I am done, I know the stuff. But then up comes a problem and I get...
  13. RoboNerd

    Question on problem solving approach involving work done

    Homework Statement Homework Equations I know that U = q * V, so my attempted approach will rely on that method The Attempt at a Solution I was wondering if people could help me solve the problem and help me figure out why B is the correct answer and what the pitfall in my problem solving...
  14. R

    What is the effect of light on the weight of a glass prism?

    Homework Statement Figure 1.1 shows an equilateral glass prism illuminated by a 100 W laser beam of wavelength λ = 600 nm. The refractive index of the glass of the prism is 1.50 at λ = 600 nm. The path of the light in the prism is parallel to the base of the prism. The momentum of a photon is...
  15. P

    Studying Problem solving of complex physics problem

    What kind of steps do you use when you need to solve a complex physics problem? What kind of questiono do you ask yourself? Richard Feynman said that you have to write down the problem and then think hard, but what thoughts and questions can help yourself find a creative solution? Is creativity...
  16. parshyaa

    Intro Math "The art of problem solving" textbook series

    I am a 12th grade student. I am new to this series and i know that these are great books. i am going to buy 3 books. the basics , introduction to algebra, introduction to geometry is it necessary to buy solution manual. is it ok to buy these three books for the beginners what about concept...
  17. UchihaClan13

    Are You on AoPS and Have You Tried the Physics Marathon?

    How many of you guys are on AoPS? And if you are, have you guys attempted the physics marathon?UchihaClan13:smile::smile:
  18. RoboNerd

    Question about problem solving approach to Gauss' Law

    Homework Statement Hi, I am studying gauss's law via this book below.[/B] http://faculty.polytechnic.org/cfletcher/Phys%20With%20Calc_Vol_2_web_pdfs_2010/i-Ch14-PCALC--GAUSS'S%20LAW.pdf On page 8, and 9, the book describes the shell method of finding the volume of the sphere and then using...
  19. G

    Print Highly Prime Numbers in an Input Interval | C Program

    Homework Statement Write a program that will print all highly prime numbers from the input interval <a,b>. Prime number is highly prime if deletion of every digit from right is a prime. Example: 239 is highly prime because 239,23,2 are primes. 2. The attempt at a solution Could someone point...
  20. ADMO

    How can one effectively solve difficult homework problems?

    I was working on a homework problem today and I got stuck, so I tried manipulating the equation as many different ways as I thought possible hoping that rearranging and substitution would allow me to see something that I was not taking into account. No luck, so then I took a break as is often...
  21. Mbywater94

    Understanding the use of a figure in thermodynamics.

    I came across an equation used in one of the forums from a few years ago. Found here: https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/calculate-how-long-it-will-take-for-the-ice-to-melt.531908/ I am researching a similar topic into melting ice and using it as a cooling solution. However when i came...
  22. W

    MHB Solving for Rita's Salary Using Proportions

    Hi all 1st Question V earns \$900 less than R. R saves 1/6 of her \$ and V saves 4/9 of hers. Both spend the rest. How much Rita earns? Attempted these 2 questions but feels that they are still incorrect. Please assist. Thank you :)
  23. E

    Having trouble trying to relearn physics

    I'm trying to relearn physics the summer. I've been studying some basic calculus and I've enjoyed it. But I'm going back to solving problems that don't involve any calculus, such as kinematics (like using the suvat equations). Now the problem is I'm having a very difficult time solving some...
  24. K

    Classical Practicing Free Body Diagrams & improve problem solving skills

    Hi, I once considered myself enough to be decent enough to solve some problems but lately I'm thinking to revisit and start solving problems again. I would like to know whether there is a book good which has problems (starting from basic to tough ones) for practicing free body diagrams. The book...
  25. J

    Why Do Contest Problems Feel More Challenging Than Classroom Exercises?

    I'm a junior in physics and math and I've done very well in my courses, but I'm finding that things like contest problems and math puzzles are extremely difficult for me. There's a problem solving club at my college I go to and I'm finding even the very simplest of the drills we're given are...
  26. Ygggdrasil

    Test Your Problem Solving Skills with Fun Quiz

    Here's a fun little quiz to test your problem solving skills. It's something I'd recommend all scientists or aspiring scientists take a shot at, as I learned a lot by taking the quiz: http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/07/03/upshot/a-quick-puzzle-to-test-your-problem-solving.html It's...
  27. P

    How Does Relativity Affect the Motion of a Falling Stick?

    Hello my name is Pablo, I'm new in the forum and couldn't find any similar post so i decided to ask. I have the following situation: In reference frame S (asumed stationary) there is a stick (length Lo in frame S) which falls from Yo at a vertical speed of 0.6c relative to S. In S the stick is...
  28. P

    My approach to physics seems pointless.

    Greetings. I completed my bachelor's in physics from the 'University of Delhi', India, an year ago and I wish to pursue a career in fundamental research. I knew that a Master's in Physics was a very serious business and thus took an year off making sure i was ready for it. However i have been...
  29. S

    Optimization methods with bivariate functions

    Hi, I have the following equation: f(z)=g(z)+b*u(z) where z=(x,y) i.e. bivariate,b is a parameter, u(z) the uniform distribution and g(z) a function that represents distance. By considering for a momment b=0, min(f(z)) can give me the location of the minimum distance. However because I want...
  30. DEvens

    Learn the Method of Lines: Textbook Resources for Industrial Problem Solving

    Can anybody suggest good resources for me to learn about the method of lines? I have budget to buy textbooks. The boss has received a "request for proposal" from a client with deep pockets. That means they want us to submit a bid for a contract. The client wants us to apply the method of lines...
  31. T

    Problem solving skills for Physics Olympiad

    I am trying to do well in this year's National Physics Olympiad here to qualify for the APhO and IPhO team. So I need to increase my skill of solving physics problems. What books are the best for physics problems and also teaches the problem solving skills? I am already studying University...
  32. Mr Davis 97

    Setting up vector equations for problem solving

    I am confused about exactly how to set up vector equations properly when it comes to the sign of the vectors. Take the following problem for example. A 70.0 kg sailor climbs an 11.5 m long rope ladder to a mast above at constant velocity. The rope ladder is at an angle of 30.0° with the mast...
  33. M

    Learning from Mistakes: Ratio Test Problem Solving

    Homework Statement I'm reviewing for a test and working on the practice problems for the ratio test that Pauls Online Notes gives. So here is given problem: Here is his solution for the problem: 2. The attempt at a solution I worked this out before I looked at the solution and I got it wrong...
  34. D

    Dealing with failure at problem solving. Internet dependence

    I'm a second year physics student and since last year I've been noticing that an old habitis becoming a serious problem: when I can't solve some exercise in a set, I literally can't do anything with respect that subject until I solve it. It has became something quite similar to an OCD. I already...
  35. A

    Other Enhance Your Problem Solving Skills in Maths and Physics with These Resources

    I am leaving high school (or Sweden's equivalent) and I will be entering a hard physics / math program at university this fall. I feel like I understand all the concepts in maths and physics, but I would like some practice on pure problem solving since that is really what I am interested in...
  36. montoyas7940

    Organic Chemistry IR and NMR problem solving

    Homework Statement I am trying to help my daughter determine the structure of this carbon compound. It has seven carbons, 14 hydrogens and one oxygen. The oxygen must be in a ketone group. Also each carbon is different (as indicated by the carbon 13 NMR). Homework Equations The Attempt...
  37. K

    Problem solving for current in parallel resistors

    Homework Statement I am able to solve most of the DC circuit problems we're given, but I seem to be missing something conceptually when it comes to finding current that passes through individual resistors when they are in parallel. An example problem would be #10 at this link...
  38. T

    How many family members originally had to share $6570?

    Am a little stuck on a question in my maths homework. Here goes. $6570 to be divided among members of a family. 9 other members of the family find out about the cash and insist on there share. as a result the share was reduced by $120. Find original number of family members. So...
  39. G

    Electromagnetic Field Theory: A Problem Solving Approach

    I stumbled on it while searching for electrodynamics textbooks for undergrads but this seems more advanced than Griffiths. Has anyone else used this book by Marcus Zahn? Is it a worthwhile read for an electrical engineer about to start sophomore year?
  40. kq6up

    How can I efficiently solve physics problems while balancing my busy life?

    The nice thing about self study is that I can put something away and come back to it later if I feel like I am in over my head. I have some thoughts about how to approach this, and I want to get your input. 1. It is recommended that one spends 2 or 3 hours outside of class for every hour...
  41. S

    Trigonometric Calculus Problem Solving Question

    Homework Statement A spotlight on the ground shines on a wall 14m away. A person of height 2 m walks toward the wall on a direct path between the spotlight and the wall at a rate of 5/3m/s. How fast is the height of the shadow on the wall changing when the person is 4m from the wall?Homework...
  42. S

    Problem Solving - Calculate the mass of steam condensed

    Problem Solving -- Calculate the mass of steam condensed 1 ) A jet of steam at 100°C is directed into a hole in a large block of ice. After the steam has switched off, the condensed steam and melted ice are both a 0 degrees Celsius. The mass of water collected is 206 g. Calculate the mass of...
  43. paulmdrdo1

    MHB Problem Solving 2 - linear Equation

    here's the other problem. 1. An army of soldiers is marching down a road at 5 mi/hr. A messenger on horseback rides from the front to the rear and returns immediately, the total time taken being 10 minutes. Assuming that the messenger rides at the rate of 10mi/hr...
  44. J

    MHB Problem solving 2 variable equal triangle problem

    I solved this many years ago, but after revisiting Trig in order to tutor my daughter, I revisited this to stimulate myself but am hitting a brick wall. Problem: A 4 inch square sits in a corner(picture x,y origin). A 12 inch ruler or line leans against the wall at an angle such that there are...
  45. J

    Back to Algebra (and Problem Solving in math)

    Hello all, So far, I have taken the calculus sequence, introductory differential equations, and some proof-based courses. I'll be moving into the introductory analysis courses (what my institution calls "advanced calculus," which is just before real analysis at my school) in the fall, but...
  46. A

    Why is the manometer problem solution calculated incorrectly?

    Homework Statement Two pipes are connected by a manometer shown in the figure. Homework Equations FR = \gamma*hc*A yR = yc + \frac{I_xc}{y_c*A} The Attempt at a Solution PB - PA = \gammawater*1.1m - \gammaFluid*0.6m + \gammawater*0.8m = 3.33 kPa I checked my answer and it...
  47. A

    Are Problem-Solving Techniques Specific to Computer Science?

    In algorithms, we learn various problem-solving techniques namely Dynamic Programming, Greedy Algorithms, Divide and Conquer and more. Why am I studying this is a computer science course? I think these are general problem solving techniques, not just related to computer science, right...
  48. mesa

    Problem solving a separable differential equation for u

    Homework Statement Solve the separable differential equation for u du/dt=e^(5u+2t) Use the following initial condition: u(0)=13 The Attempt at a Solution Honestly I didn't get very far on this one. I took the natural log of both sides, ln du/dt = 5u+2t And now I am stuck. Should I divide...
  49. B

    Problem solving in rural hospitals Thailand

    Hey everybody, I have a case with which you might be able to help me out a little bit. Together with 5 fellow students I am trying to solve a problem existing in rural hospitals in Lampang (Thailand). The problem there is that they don't have enough money to purchase a proper system to...
  50. W

    How To Approach Units and Problem Solving Questions?

    Hey everyone, I'm starting to learn physics on my own and I'm doing the chapter review questions at the end of the chapter. Right now, I'm on units and problem solving. My question to you guys is should I be concerned about actually knowing the exact measurement to solve the problems, or is...
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