Find the heaviest ball

You are given 6 balls, all of them appear the same in shape and size. 5 of them are of equal weight and the 6th one is heavier compared to the others. If you are given a bean balance , in how many minimum weighs can you find out the heaviest ball ?

2

Thats correct . But, can you explain the different possible ways of arriving at this answer.

1) (3,3) -> take the heavier lot

2) (1,1) -> from the heavier lot , if equal then the 3rd ball is the heavier one otherwise take the heavier one from the first 2

This is one of the possible ways. Can you think of any other way to find the heavier ball in 2 weighs ?

(2,2)
-> if not equal , then take the heavier lot and again weigh (1,1) to find the heavier one..
-> if equal, then weigh the other 2 balls and take the heavier one..

Correct . now this completes the possible ways . good job Codecrckr !

In the above question, if we do not know whether the ball which is of different weight from other balls is heavier or lighter, then how many minimum steps are required to find out the ball which is of different weight from other balls.

3..

Can you tell me the way you arrived at this answer