Mathematics Problem Of the Week

Spring 2007

POW 6: Earnest Chances

Urn I and Urn II each contain 3 red and 3 white balls.  First we transfer one ball from Urn I to Urn II.  Then we transfer one ball from Urn II to Urn I.  Finally we take one ball from Urn I and it is red.  What is the probability that both balls transferred were also red?

Due Friday, March 9^th , at Noon.

Solutions should be submitted to Dr. Maegan Bos’ mailbox in the Math office or sent via e-mail to mbos@stlawu.edu

Presentation counts! The prize-winning entry will be selected from all correct submissions, based on the clarity, creativity and elegance of the solution.

Look for the SLU POW on the Web at http://it.stlawu.edu/~math/activities/