Figuring Out the Value of N: Jack & John's CWS Challenge

In summary, Jack and John discuss A and B's CWS eating race, where A beats B and B beats C. They try to figure out the number of CWS in each jar, with a hint that the sum of digits of C's remaining CWS when A finishes is equal to the number of CWS in the jar. After some calculations, they determine that the number of CWS in each jar must be a multiple of 25, and the only possible value is 250.
  • #1
Wilmer
307
0
Jack, John and CWS's
==============
Canadian Wild Strawberries (CWS) are tiny but tasty.
A and B each have a jar containing 400 CWS; they decide
to have a CWS eating race; A wins, swallowing his last
CWS when B still has 23 left. Took A 13.2 seconds; burp!
Next, B takes on C, each with a jar containing 261 CWS;
B wins, C left with 117 CWS (C has a bad toothache).
Jack: well, John, A took on C next
John: you ya I'm sure he did
Jack: each had a jar containing N CWS's
John: oh boy
Jack: want to try figure out what N is?
John: not really
Jack: here's a hint: in the 200 to 500 range, and they
both swallowed at same speed as in their 1st race
John: oh ya? (comes back with a printout)
Jack: A beat C by an integral amount
John: ya; I figured as much; need another clue
Jack: the sum of digits of the number of CWS that C had left
when A finished is equal to this number here
...and John knew.
What is the value of N?
 
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  • #2
Before I forget/lose my solution:

SOLUTION
Result of A:B and B:C races means A:C = 400:208.
So, for all to be integral, jars must contain a
multiple of 25, since 25:13 is lowest.
There are 13 such possibilities in the 200-500 range:
Code:
            A ate   C ate   A-C  SUMDIGITS
             200     104     96     15
             225     117    108      9
             250     130    120      3*
             275     143    132      6
             300     156    144      9
             325     169    156     12
             350     182    168     15
             375     195    180      9
             400     208    192     12
             425     221    204      6
             450     234    216      9
             475     247    228     12
             500     260    240      6
Only 3 is unique as sum of digits of the differences.
So N = 250.
 

FAQ: Figuring Out the Value of N: Jack & John's CWS Challenge

What is the purpose of "Figuring Out the Value of N: Jack & John's CWS Challenge"?

The purpose of this challenge is to determine the value of N in a mathematical equation proposed by Jack and John. The equation is related to the number of steps it takes to complete a certain task, and finding the value of N will help us understand the efficiency of the task.

How does the CWS Challenge work?

The CWS Challenge involves a series of steps or tasks that need to be completed. Jack and John have proposed an equation that calculates the number of steps needed to complete the challenge. By plugging in different values for N and observing the number of steps, we can determine the most efficient value of N for completing the challenge.

What is the significance of finding the value of N in the CWS Challenge?

The value of N in the CWS Challenge represents the most efficient way to complete the task. By figuring out the value of N, we can optimize our approach and complete the challenge in the most efficient way possible.

How can we use the results of the CWS Challenge in real-life situations?

The CWS Challenge is a simplified version of real-life situations where we need to find the most efficient approach to completing a task. By understanding the value of N, we can apply this knowledge to real-life scenarios and improve our efficiency and productivity.

Are there any limitations to the CWS Challenge and its results?

Like any scientific experiment, there may be limitations to the CWS Challenge and its results. The equation proposed by Jack and John may not be applicable to all tasks and situations, and the results may vary depending on the specific parameters and variables involved. It is important to consider these limitations when interpreting the results of the challenge.

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