TED-Ed: Dennis Shasha: Can you solve the stolen rubies riddle?

A merchant accused of corruption must play a game to determine the fine. He divides 30 rubies into three boxes, and an advisor must choose numbers to maximize ruby collection. The advisor uses strategic thinking and proof by contradiction to ensure a minimum win of 16 rubies, recovering more than half of the merchant's wealth.

What is the main reason the crowd is clamoring for the confiscation of the merchant's rubies?

How does the king decide to determine the fine for the merchant?

What are the constraints placed on how the merchant can distribute his rubies?

What strategy should you use to guarantee the largest possible fine for the scoundrel?

Explain the proof by contradiction used to determine the minimum number of rubies in the boxes.