Probability: jailer's reasoning
Not what you're looking for?
40. Three prisoners are informed by their jailer that one of them has been chosen at random to be executed and the other two are to be freed. Prisoner A asks the jailer to tell him privately which of his fellow prisoners will be set free, claiming that there would be no harm in divulging this information because he already knows that at least one of the two will go free. The jailer refuses to answer this question, pointing out that if A knew which of his fellow prisoners were to be set free, then his own probability of being executed would rise from 1/3 to ½ because he would then be one of two prisoners. What do you think of the jailer's reasoning?
Use words to describe the solution
Purchase this Solution
Solution Summary
The expert analyzes a probability question. The jailer's reasoning for executing and freeing prisoners is provided.
Solution Preview
Jailer's reasoning is not correct
Probability of A being executed= 1/3
Probability of B being executed= 1/3
Probability of C being executed= 1/3
Case 1
Probability of A being executed and guard telling that B will be set free = 1/3 x ½ = 1/6
( ½ because both B and C will be set free and the guard telling that B is to be set free is ½ as he can also say that C will be set free)
Case 2
Probability of A being executed and guard telling that C will be set free = 1/3 x ½ = 1/6
( ½ because both B and C will be set free and the guard telling that C is to be set free is ½ as he ...
Purchase this Solution
Free BrainMass Quizzes
Exponential Expressions
In this quiz, you will have a chance to practice basic terminology of exponential expressions and how to evaluate them.
Probability Quiz
Some questions on probability
Geometry - Real Life Application Problems
Understanding of how geometry applies to in real-world contexts
Solving quadratic inequalities
This quiz test you on how well you are familiar with solving quadratic inequalities.
Know Your Linear Equations
Each question is a choice-summary multiple choice question that will present you with a linear equation and then make 4 statements about that equation. You must determine which of the 4 statements are true (if any) in regards to the equation.