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An explorer is captured by a group of cannibals. There are
Chapter 1, Problem 16E(choose chapter or problem)
Problem 16E
An explorer is captured by a group of cannibals. There are two types of cannibals—those who always tell the truth and those who always lie. The cannibals will barbecue the explorer unless he can determine whether a particular cannibal always lies or always tells the truth. He is allowed to ask the cannibal exactly one question.
a) Explain why the question “Are you a liar?” does not work.
b)Find a question that the explorer can use to determine whether the cannibal always lies or always tells the truth.
Questions & Answers
QUESTION:
Problem 16E
An explorer is captured by a group of cannibals. There are two types of cannibals—those who always tell the truth and those who always lie. The cannibals will barbecue the explorer unless he can determine whether a particular cannibal always lies or always tells the truth. He is allowed to ask the cannibal exactly one question.
a) Explain why the question “Are you a liar?” does not work.
b)Find a question that the explorer can use to determine whether the cannibal always lies or always tells the truth.
ANSWER:
Solution :
Step 1 :
The objective of this question is to judge the person is the liar or tell the truth. An explorer is captured by a group of cannibals. There are two types of cannibals—those who always tell the truth and those who always lie. The cannibals will barbecue the explorer unless he can determine whether a particular cannibal always lies or always tells the truth. He is allowed to ask the cannibal exactly one question.
a) Explain why the question “Are you a liar?” does not work.
b)Find a question that the explorer can use to determine whether the cannibal always lies or always tells the truth.