TED-Ed: Can you solve the riddle and escape Hades? | Dan Finkel

In an overcrowded underworld, Zeus orders Hades to release some souls. Cerberus, the three-headed dog, determines which souls return to the living. Hermes offers a chance to join the line, but only if you choose the best spot. The video explores the probabilities of survival based on position in line, revealing that the third spot offers the highest chance of escape. The strategy involves understanding averages and probabilities to maximize survival chances.

What happens to the souls to the left of the one chosen by Cerberus?

• They are moved to the back of the line.

• They are given another chance to be chosen.

• They must stay in the underworld forever.

• They are returned to the land of the living.

What does Hermes offer to do for you?

• Give you a map of the underworld.

• Place you in the line without anyone noticing.

• Teach you how to control Cerberus.

• Help you escape the underworld immediately.

Why is the third spot in line considered the best?

• It offers the highest chance of being saved.

• It is closest to the exit.

• It is the least likely to be chosen by Cerberus.

• It allows you to skip the line.

What is the probability of survival if you are in the third spot?

• 1 in 3

• 16 out of 27

• 50%

• 1 in 2

What is the average chance of survival for spots later in the line?

• 60%

• 75%

• 50%

• 25%