Why are manhole covers round?

Question

Michael B. · Accepted Answer

The answer they are undoubtedly looking for is because manholes are also round thus need round covers. It doesn't ask why they were designed to be round from an inventive stand point and makes no mention of why the holes themselves are round, just the covers. Its a test of your ability to use logic and reason and make sure that if they hired you that you would have a firm understanding of the "big picture".

Thats my take on this anyway...

Anonymous · Answer

Because round the only shape that prevents them from being able to fall down into the manhole.

Anonymous · Answer

cause they don't have any edges.

David Leitman · Answer

My guess is if you need to put it back or take it off you can roll it around rather than carry it or drag it

querdenker · Answer

They aren't. In my house, there are 3, and they are all square or rectangular. I have been in a mine where the (round) manholes weren't covered with anything at all which was rather unsafe, and another where they were covered with a lattice to prevent things or people from falling into them. I haven't seen any round manhole cover yet.

But I'm not a native English speaker and may not be getting the pun, someone please enlighten me what this stupid question means.

Google

Google interview question

Interview Answers

Want the inside scoop on your own company?

Bowls

Followed companies

Job searches