Solve the Lightbulb Puzzle with One Trip

In summary, to find out which switch goes to which lightbulb in a separate room with three switches, start with all switches off, turn on switches 1 and 2, wait 5 minutes, turn off switch 2, and then go into the other room. The light that is on corresponds to switch 1, the light that is off and warm corresponds to switch 2, and the light that is off and cold corresponds to switch 3.
  • #1
Herodotus
4
0
You're in a room with three switches that open three lightbulbs in a separate room. You don't know which switch turns on which lightbulb. How do you find out which switch goes to which lightbulb by entering the other room only once? You don't have any help, you can't see the other room while you are in the room with the other switches or vice versa, you can't make any device that extends your reach into the other room, etc.
 
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  • #2
If the switches are numbered 1, 2 and 3, do this:

Start with all switches off.
Turn on switches 1 and 2.
Wait 5 minutes.
Turn off switch 2.
Go into the other room.

The light that is on corresponds to switch 1.
The light that is off and warm corresponds to switch 2.
The light that is off and cold corresponds to switch 3.
 
  • #3
James R said:
If the switches are numbered 1, 2 and 3, do this:

To give other people a chance to think about the problem, check out the "eye" icon in the editor menu:

It helps the people who do not want to see the answer skip your posted solution.
 
  • #4
Ah. Ok. I'll use that in future.
 
  • #5
This is a test of the eye function - DO NOT READ under penalty of law.
 

FAQ: Solve the Lightbulb Puzzle with One Trip

How do I solve the lightbulb puzzle with one trip?

The key to solving this puzzle is to think creatively and use the resources available to you. One possible solution is to use a mirror to reflect the light from the working lightbulb onto the broken one, thereby illuminating the room without needing to make a second trip.

Why is it important to solve the lightbulb puzzle with one trip?

Solving the puzzle with one trip is important because it saves time and energy. In a real-life situation, this could also save resources and money by avoiding the need to purchase additional lightbulbs or make multiple trips to the store.

What are some other possible solutions to the lightbulb puzzle?

There are many creative solutions to this puzzle, depending on the resources available to you. Some other possible solutions include using reflective surfaces, such as a shiny pot or a piece of aluminum foil, to redirect the light from the working bulb onto the broken one. Another solution is to use a magnifying glass to concentrate the light onto the broken bulb and make it glow.

How can I make the puzzle more challenging?

If you want to make the puzzle more challenging, you can limit the resources available to you or add additional constraints. For example, you could remove the mirror from the room or require that the lightbulbs be placed in specific locations. This will require you to think even more creatively to find a solution.

What skills does solving the lightbulb puzzle with one trip require?

Solving this puzzle requires critical thinking, problem-solving, and resourcefulness. It also requires the ability to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions. Additionally, having a basic understanding of light and how it travels can be helpful in finding a solution.

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