Section 3: Dexter Cattle – A Potential Solution?

3.1 Weight of Dexter cattle and the Boeing 747

As a smaller alternative to Holstein cows, we consider using Dexter cattle to weigh down the Boeing 747. Dexter cattle have an average weight of about 750 lbs (340 kg).

3.2 Estimated number of Dexter cattle

By dividing the maximum takeoff weight of the Boeing 747 by the weight of a single Dexter cow, we find that approximately 1,214 Dexter cattle would be needed to weigh down the aircraft.

3.3 Dexter cattle accommodation feasibility

Dexter cattle are smaller than Holstein cows, with an estimated required space of 6 ft (1.83 m) in length, 3 ft (0.91 m) in width, and 5 ft (1.52 m) in height. This gives a volume of 90 cubic feet (2.55 m³) per cow.

Total Dexter cattle capacity = Available space inside the Boeing 747 / Space required per Dexter cow

Total Dexter cattle capacity = 35,947 cubic feet / 90 cubic feet = 399.41

Our calculations reveal that about 399 Dexter cattle could fit within the aircraft, considering its total volume. This is still not enough to weigh down the plane, as 1,214 Dexter cattle are needed. We have already examined geese, Holstein cows, and Dexter cattle, but none of these animals provided a viable solution. Now, we will explore another candidate: pigs.

Section 4: Pigs – A More Promising Prospect?

4.1 Weight of pigs and the Boeing 747

For this example, we will consider the domestic pig, which has an average weight of around 600 lbs (272 kg) for a fully grown adult.

4.2 Estimated number of pigs

By dividing the maximum takeoff weight of the Boeing 747 (910,000 lbs or 412,770 kg) by the weight of a single pig, we find that approximately 1,517 pigs would be needed to weigh down the aircraft.

4.3 Pig accommodation feasibility

Pigs are smaller and more compact than cows. Assuming each pig requires a rectangular space with dimensions of approximately 4 ft (1.22 m) in length, 2.5 ft (0.76 m) in width, and 3 ft (0.91 m) in height, this gives a volume of 30 cubic feet (0.85 m³) per pig.

Total pig capacity = Available space inside the Boeing 747 / Space required per pig

Total pig capacity = 35,947 cubic feet / 30 cubic feet = 1,198

Our calculations reveal that about 1,198 pigs could fit within the aircraft, considering its total volume. This number is very close to the 1,517 pigs needed to weigh down the plane. Although it still falls short, it represents the most promising animal candidate among those considered so far.

Conclusion:

The thought experiment of weighing down a Boeing 747 with animals presents challenges in terms of both the number of animals required and the practicality of accommodating them within the aircraft. While pigs emerged as the most promising candidate, even they did not provide a perfect solution. It is important to recognize the numerous logistical and ethical considerations that would arise in a real-world scenario. Ultimately, this question serves as an entertaining exercise in problem-solving and critical thinking.