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Problem Title: Search and Find

     
  Year: 2011      
  Student Level: High School      
  Source: HiMCM      
  Commentary: Yes (1)      
  Student Papers: Yes (4)      
     
  Problem  
 

Finding lost objects is not always an easy task, even when you have knowledge of a general location. Consider the following scenario: you have lost a small object, such as a class ring, in a small park see map 1. It is getting dark and you have your pen light flashlight available. If your light shines on the ring, you assume that you see it. You cannot possibly search 100% of the region. Determine how you will search the park in minimum time. An average person walks approximately 4 mph. You have about 2 hours to search. Determine the chance you will find the lost object.

Using map 2, assume, a jogger is lost who was going on a 5 mile run. Determine how you search the region to have a good chance of finding the lost jogger (who might be unconscious). Assume it is night and you only have your pen light as a light source.

Click here to view map 1

Click here to view map 2

 
         
  Commentary      
 

Consortium Article

     
         
  Student Papers      
 

Team 2881: Search and Find

Mills Godwin High School, Henrico, VA

 
         
 

Team 3074: Search and Find

Winchester Thurston School, Pittsburgh, PA

 
         
 

Team 3180: Search and Find

The Charter School of Wilmington, Wilmington, DE

 
         
 

Team 3192: Search and Find

Maggie L. Walker Governor's School, Richmond, VA