TED-Ed: Can you solve the prisoner hat riddle? - Alex Gendler

In a test by aliens, humans must guess the color of their hats to prove their logic. The game involves standing in a line and guessing based on the parity of visible hats. A strategy is devised where the first person communicates parity information, allowing others to deduce their hat color. This method ensures at least nine correct guesses, saving the group. The video explains the rules, strategy, and provides an example, demonstrating the effectiveness of the approach.

What is the main reason the aliens are testing the humans?

• To test their ability to work under pressure

• To find out if they can communicate without speaking

• To see if they can guess the number of hats

• To determine if they are logical and cooperative

What is the key strategy used by the first person in line to help others guess their hat color?

• Guessing randomly

• Communicating through gestures

• Using the parity of black hats seen

• Counting the total number of hats

How does the first person in line communicate information to others?

• By using different tones of voice

• By pointing to the hats

• By whispering the number of hats

• By saying 'black' or 'white' based on the parity of black hats

What happens if the first person guesses their own hat color incorrectly?

• The entire group fails the test

• It doesn't matter as long as the information helps others

• They are immediately eaten by the aliens

• The next person in line must guess for them

Why is the strategy effective in ensuring at least nine correct guesses?

• Because it involves complex calculations

• Because it uses a logical deduction based on parity

• Because it relies on random guessing

• Because it allows for multiple wrong guesses