Six logicians stand one behind the other facing an opaque wall such that 2 are on one side and 4 are on the other. None of the logicians can turn around or see beyond the wall.
Each wears a black or white hat as shown below; "|" represents the wall, capital letters are used to identify the logicians, and "b" and "w" refer to black and white respectively.
b w | b w b w
A B | C D E F
Each knows the location of the others and the quantity of each colour of hat. Who will be first to declare having which colour?
Answer: D
If F saw all the same color then F could make the first call.
Since E does not hear F declare a color, then E needs only see two of the same color to make the call.
Since D does not hear E declare a color, then D's hat must be different from C's.
D makes the call of white after waiting for E and F.
Edited on June 15, 2006, 12:52 pm
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Posted by Leming
on 2006-06-15 12:46:50 |
Is it logical to stand and face a wall? Solution
