Why was platinum initially cheaper than silver, and now much more expensive? Detailed answer

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Why was platinum initially cheaper than silver, and now much more expensive? Detailed answer

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Why was platinum initially cheaper than silver, and now much more expensive?

Platinum literally means "silver" in Spanish. Such a dismissive name given to this metal by the conquistadors is explained by the exceptional refractoriness of platinum, which was not amenable to remelting, did not find application for a long time and was valued half as much as silver. Now platinum is about 100 times more expensive than silver on world exchanges.

Authors: Jimmy Wales, Larry Sanger

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A computer system that determines whether a subscriber can answer a phone call is offered by engineers from Carnegie Mellon University in Pennsylvania (USA).

The system, installed at the subscriber's workplace or in his living room, consists of microphones, video cameras and motion sensors connected to a computer.

When a phone call comes in, the computer estimates the position. How many people are in the room, whether the owner is talking or silent, whether he is working on the computer or just sitting, whether he is walking around the room or waving his arms violently, the door is open or closed. And, having compared all this information, the electronic secretary decides whether to invite the subscriber to the phone or answer the caller "sorry, he is very busy, call back later."

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