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Problem #91 EASY

The Extra Rope Around the Earth

Paradox Geometry Math

Problem Statement

A rope is tied tightly around the equator of the Earth, lying flat on the surface. The Earth's radius is approximately 6,371 km. Now the rope is extended so that it floats exactly 1 metre above the entire equator — a perfectly uniform gap all the way around. How much extra rope is needed? Your first instinct will tell you it must be thousands of metres. Compute the exact answer and prepare to be astonished.

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