Question

Dimensions of a box?

Answer 1

This requires some visual spatialization. Take into account the fact that you can stack the reams of paper vertically as well.

Answer 2

Okay, I also found the surface area of a ream of paper. Is that relevant?

Answer 3

The constraint of being restricted to having no empty space within the box leads me to believe that two 10-stacked reams of paper is the most you can have, without placing the 72 pound weight restriction. With the 72 pound weight restriction, 6 reams of paper will have to be removed, 3 reams from each of the two stacks. That would leave you with 2 stacks of 7-stacked reams of paper. Dimensions: 7*(2) x 2*(8.5) x 1*(11) in.^3

Answer 4

Stacking reams of paper vertically is not possible since the box must not have any open space inside.

Answer 5

Oh unless you trim off the stacks and place them vertically next to the stacks? Let me think about this more.

Answer 6

Ok so to approach this problem, I guess start out with matching your weight constraint with the maximum number of reams of paper you can have. This will be 14 reams of paper weighing 5*14 = 70 lbs < 72 lbs max weight. Then finding a stacking structure is next.

Answer 7

So stack the papers horizontally?

Answer 8

Yea, there is no constrain to minimize surface area.

Answer 9

Okay, this helps a lot (: I'll see if I can figure out the rest.