Mathematics Problem Of the Week

Spring 2007

POW 1: Who stole the Stradivarius?

A famous violinist was in town for a concert. While she was away from her room for a short time her favorite violin, a Stradivarius, was stolen.  The police took immediate action, and through diligent research was able to identify four suspects. Let’s call them Joe, Mary, Fred, and Gale.  They made the following statements to the police. The guilty one’s statement is false; the other statements are true.

Joe: I was not in town at the time of the theft

Mary: Fred is the Culprit

Fred: Mary is lying.

Gale: Fred is telling the truth.

Which one is guilty? Be sure to justify your answer.

Due Friday, February 2^nd , at Noon.

Solutions should be submitted to Dr. Maegan Bos’ mailbox in the Math office or sent via e-mail to mbos@stlawu.edu

Presentation counts! The prize-winning entry will be selected from all correct submissions, based on the clarity, creativity and elegance of the solution.

Look for the SLU POW on the Web at http://it.stlawu.edu/~math/activities/