Puzzle: an absolute reader maximum conundrum
July 7, 2007 pm31 8:00 pm
Vlorbik, in yesterday’s discussion, threw out this little problem:
the absolute value can be defined in terms of the maximum function quite easily:
abs(x) := max{x, -x}.
but to define “max” in terms of “abs”takes a moment’s thought (or, in my case, several moments). give it a try!
I should mention, I did not find this one easy.
Do us a favor, and leave questions below, but put proposed solutions back here, so that others won’t see them by accident while they are still trying to solve. Thanks.
4 Comments
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JD2718 
Uhm, I think I’m having a brain freeze, but I don’t see “the question” that needs a solution. I read it, re-read it, went to the grocery store, and reading it again, I still don’t see the question. Unless it is a proof of the statement you’re looking for?
Help!
Write a definition of maximum that depends on absolute value.
Vlorbik has given us an example the other way, how we can write a definition of absolute value that depends on maximum.
Ahhhhh, thanks.
nice!
For more such challenging and brain teasing puzzles visit: http://tough-nut.blogspot.com/