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Consortium for Mathematics and its Applications

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Resource Type: Contest Problem
Primary Level: High School

Search and Find

Author: COMAP


Background:

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.

Problem Download

©2011 by COMAP, Inc.
HiMCM Problem
Commentary: Yes (1) | Student Papers: Yes (4)

Mathematics Topics:

Math Modeling

Application Areas:

Contest Preparation

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