Let S be the sum of integer weights that come with a two pan balance Scale, say ω1≤ω2≤ω3≤...≤ωn. Show that all integer-weighted objects in the range 1 to S can be weighed exactly if and only if ω1=1 and ωj+1≤2(j∑l=1ωl)+1
Source: Indian Postal Coaching 2009 set 3 p3
Tags: weights, combinatorics
Let S be the sum of integer weights that come with a two pan balance Scale, say ω1≤ω2≤ω3≤...≤ωn. Show that all integer-weighted objects in the range 1 to S can be weighed exactly if and only if ω1=1 and ωj+1≤2(j∑l=1ωl)+1