Manhole Covers ???????

The Harshit Aggarwal (B.Com(H) ,CS Final) (5278 Points)

07 December 2009  

Why is it better to have round manhole covers than square ones?

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This is logical rather than lateral, but it is a good puzzle, which can be solved by lateral thinking techniques.

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A very well known software company as an interview question supposedly uses it for prospective employees.

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Scroll down for the answer

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Solution:
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A square manhole cover can be turned and dropped down the diagonal of the manhole. A round manhole cannot be dropped down the manhole. So for safety and practicality, all manhole covers should be round.