How to Travel 3km with 3 Tyres and a Tyreless Bike
Imagine you have a bike without tyres and three tyres that can each travel a maximum distance of 2km. Your goal is to travel 3km. At first glance, this might seem impossible. However, with a bit of strategic thinking and careful planning, it is indeed possible to travel the required distance. This article will guide you through the process, answering potential questions and providing valuable insights along the way.
Understanding the Problem
The problem at hand is a classic example of a resource allocation problem. You have a limited number of resources (in this case, tyres) that you need to use in the most efficient way possible to achieve your goal (travel 3km). The key to solving this problem is understanding that you can change tyres mid-journey.
Step-by-Step Solution
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to travel 3km with 3 tyres and a tyreless bike:
- Start by fitting two of the tyres onto the bike. Travel 1km. You now have two tyres that can travel 1km more and one unused tyre.
- Swap one of the used tyres with the unused one. Travel another 1km. You now have one tyre that can travel 1km more, one tyre that can travel 2km more, and one used-up tyre.
- Swap the used-up tyre with the tyre that can still travel 1km. Travel the final 1km. You’ve now travelled a total of 3km.
Addressing Potential Questions
Why not use all three tyres from the start?
Using all three tyres from the start would mean that each tyre would only be able to travel 2/3km before reaching its maximum distance. This would leave you 1km short of your goal.
Why swap tyres mid-journey?
Swapping tyres mid-journey allows you to make the most of each tyre’s maximum distance. By swapping out a used tyre for an unused one after 1km, you ensure that you always have a tyre that can travel the remaining distance.
Conclusion
While the problem of travelling 3km with 3 tyres and a tyreless bike may initially seem impossible, it can be solved with a bit of strategic thinking and careful planning. By understanding the nature of the problem and making the most of your resources, you can reach your goal. Remember, sometimes the solution to a problem isn’t about having more resources, but about using what you have in the most efficient way possible.