Mathematics Problem Of the Week

Spring 2007

POW 8: Waterslide to freedom!

A mathematician, a statistician, a computer scientist and a physicist have been captured by a former student driven mad by too many word problems.  They are imprisoned in the dungeon of a strong tower.  Each time the mathematician correctly solves a problem, he is allowed to lead one of the others either from the dungeon up to the roof of the tower, or from the roof of the tower back into captivity in the dungeon.  The only catch is that if the physicist is left alone with either the statistician or the computer scientist, Bad Consequences will Ensue.  What is the minimum number of problems the mathematician must solve before he has all his friends gathered on the roof of the tower where they can take the waterslide to freedom together?

Due Friday, March 30^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/