TED-Ed: Can you solve the basketball robot riddle? | Dan Katz

The video tutorial discusses a scenario where a robot, Dunkomatic, is designed to play basketball against humans. The challenge is to adjust the robot's probability of success to ensure a fair game. The solution involves using geometric series to calculate the probability, ensuring both human and robot have equal chances of winning. The demonstration is successful, and the presenter explains the company's overpromises and the quick solution devised. The outcome leads to a positive career change for the presenter.

What was the initial purpose of the robot designed by the protagonist?

• To play chess against humans

• To cook meals automatically

• To shoot baskets with varying success

• To dance with human partners

Why is it important to adjust the robot's probability of success?

• To ensure the robot always wins

• To create a fair game for every opponent

• To make the robot unpredictable

• To increase the robot's speed

What mathematical concept is used to calculate the probability of winning?

• Exponential growth

• Fibonacci sequence

• Geometric series

• Arithmetic series

What happens if the human's probability of success is greater than 50%?

• The robot automatically wins

• A fair game is impossible

• The game ends in a draw

• The robot's probability must be less than one

How does the robot's probability of winning compare to the human's?

• The robot's probability is unpredictable

• Both have the same probability

• The robot has a lower probability

• The robot has a higher probability

What was the outcome of the demonstration at the conference?

• The robot malfunctioned

• The robot won every game

• The audience was unimpressed

• The demonstration was a success

What was the protagonist's final outcome after the conference?

• They received a promotion

• They were fired from their job

• They joined a more employee-friendly company

• They decided to quit robotics