End Result Will Shock You 🤯

TL;DR

The solution to the cable problem is that poles are at zero distance.

Transcript

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Key Insights

• The problem is derived from a job interview questionnaire for Amazon aimed at software engineers, highlighting its complexity and importance.
• The question involves a cable hanging between two poles, forming a catenary curve, a common shape for hanging cables.
• Many candidates assumed the problem required solving using hyperbolic functions, but this approach was misleading.
• The cable's total length is 80 meters, and its lowest point is 10 meters above the ground, matching the height of the poles.
• The vertical length from the top of the pole to the lowest point of the cable is 40 meters, leading to a U-shaped conclusion.
• The correct solution is that the distance between the poles is zero, as the poles are in the same location.
• Amazon looks for candidates who can creatively solve unexpected problems, not just those with technical knowledge.
• The problem illustrates the importance of careful analysis and not rushing to conclusions in technical interviews.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the main challenge in the cable problem?

The main challenge in the cable problem is recognizing that the solution does not involve complex mathematical functions like hyperbolic curves. Instead, it requires understanding that the cable forms a U-shape, leading to the conclusion that the poles are at zero distance from each other.

Q: Why did many candidates get the problem wrong?

Many candidates got the problem wrong because they rushed to solve it using hyperbolic functions, assuming it required complex mathematical solutions. They overlooked the simpler conclusion that the cable forms a U-shape, with the poles at zero distance, due to the problem's deceptive simplicity.

Q: What does the cable problem illustrate about Amazon's interview process?

The cable problem illustrates that Amazon's interview process values creative problem-solving and analytical thinking over rote technical knowledge. Candidates are challenged to approach problems from unique angles and not rely solely on conventional methods, highlighting the importance of innovative thinking in technical roles.

Q: How does the cable's length relate to the solution?

The cable's length is crucial to the solution as it is 80 meters in total, with the lowest point 10 meters above the ground. This configuration suggests a U-shape, where the vertical length from the pole's top to the cable's lowest point is 40 meters, leading to the conclusion that the poles are at zero distance.

Q: What is the significance of the catenary curve in the problem?

The catenary curve is significant because it represents the shape formed by the hanging cable. While candidates initially thought solving the problem required hyperbolic functions, the true solution lies in recognizing the cable's U-shape configuration, indicating that the poles are at zero distance from each other.

Q: Why is the problem considered controversial?

The problem is considered controversial because it misleads candidates into thinking it requires complex mathematical solutions, like hyperbolic functions. However, the solution is surprisingly simple, as it involves recognizing the cable's U-shape and concluding that the poles are at zero distance, challenging conventional problem-solving approaches.

Q: What lesson can be learned from this problem?

The lesson from this problem is the importance of not rushing to conclusions and analyzing problems carefully. It teaches candidates to think creatively and explore unconventional solutions, as the problem's deceptive simplicity required recognizing the cable's U-shape and concluding that the poles are at zero distance.

Q: How does this problem test a candidate's skills?

This problem tests a candidate's skills by challenging them to think beyond standard technical knowledge and apply creative problem-solving. It assesses their ability to analyze and interpret information correctly, emphasizing the need for innovative thinking and careful analysis, as demonstrated by the unexpected solution of the poles being at zero distance.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The problem revolves around a cable hanging between two poles, forming a catenary curve. Many candidates wrongly assumed it required hyperbolic functions. However, the solution is that the poles are at zero distance, as the cable forms a U-shape. This highlights the need for creative problem-solving skills.

• The cable problem is a part of Amazon's interview process, challenging candidates to think creatively. The cable's total length is 80 meters, with its lowest point 10 meters above the ground. The correct answer is the poles are at zero distance, illustrating the importance of careful analysis.

• Candidates often rush to solve the cable problem using complex functions, but the answer lies in recognizing the cable's U-shape. Amazon values creative solutions to unexpected problems. The problem emphasizes the need for analytical thinking in technical interviews, as the poles are at zero distance.