February 6, 2009

Your turn, Ray!

The clever Mr. Raymond Rickert has posed a rather interesting question. He asks "Why do geese fly in a V formation with one side longer than the other?" Well, first I say that they must fly in a V because an S would be too difficult. Second, the V may be longer because geese simply aren't that precise, and sometimes forget to count off during line-up for take-off. Another possibility is that the line IS correct and it only appears to be shorter on one side because of depth perception. This would depend on the angle at which you are observing them.

Now that we've had our trivia satisfaction for today, HOW IS EVERYBODY???!!
Love to all,
Debi

3 comments:

Tom W son of Robert said...

Silly girl, Debi! Previously, I gave the more mathematical explanation based on physical principles. However, a more exact answer to Mr. Rickert's dilemna is that one side of the V is longer simply because it has more geese in it than the other. Of course, I still think it is a trick question.

Oh, I'm fine, however, I am wet & cold. It was zero this morning and now it is cold and wet.

Ray Rickert/s Donnabelle Walker said...

Why, fine, thank you.

In regard to the question I posed, both Debi and Tom have intelligent insights to the answer, but the mark has been missed in each case. I suspect both have spent too much time watching geese. Maybe John can weigh in and provide the precise answer.

John and Pat said...

Hey Ray is the answer precise enough?