2. On a balance that is in equilibrium, on one scale pan lies one apple and two identical pears. On the other scale pan, there are two such apples and one such pear. Which is lighter - the apple or the pear? How did you find out?
2. Based on the problem statement, let's draw a diagram

![](https://cdn.mathpix.com/cropped/2024_05_21_e53d4ff4f2278a1c0d12g-010.jpg?height=186&width=782&top_left_y=889&top_left_x=637)

Remove one apple from each side of the scales. The scales will remain in balance because the apples were identical.

![](https://cdn.mathpix.com/cropped/2024_05_21_e53d4ff4f2278a1c0d12g-010.jpg?height=180&width=776&top_left_y=1298&top_left_x=640)

Remove one pear from each side of the scales.

We will find that the mass of the apple and the pear are the same.

This problem could also be solved without using illustrations, using only reasoning.

![](https://cdn.mathpix.com/cropped/2024_05_21_e53d4ff4f2278a1c0d12g-010.jpg?height=182&width=776&top_left_y=1768&top_left_x=640)

Remove one apple and one pear from each side of the scales. In this case, the scales will remain in balance. On the left side, there will be one apple, and on the right side, one pear. Thus, the mass of the pear is equal to the mass of the apple.

Answer: The mass of the apple is equal to the mass of the pear.